Image of 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk, sourced from www.hemmings.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk emerges as a gleaming testament to the audacious spirit of mid-century American automotive design. Born from the ambitious Studebaker-Packard Corporation, this vehicle is a shining example of innovation and style. The Golden Hawk was part of the halo car strategy, designed to capture both the imagination and aspirations of post-war America. It stood as a symbol of progress during an era marked by a fascination with jet aircraft and space exploration, which is mirrored in its bold and futuristic lines. A notable moment in its history includes its role as one of the earliest American cars to offer a supercharged engine—a feature that added to its allure and performance credentials.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk exudes an air of confidence with its low-slung profile, pronounced fins, and a distinctive grille that commands attention. The vehicle's design was a harmonious blend of aerodynamics and artistry, with a hawk-inspired hood ornament that seemed ready to take flight. Inside, passengers were greeted by a cabin that showcased the quality materials of the era, including rich leather upholstery and chrome accents. Technologically advanced for its time, it featured innovations like a supercharged V8 engine. Color options ranged from subtle to vibrant, with the Tiara Gold over Arctic White combination being particularly popular among enthusiasts. The Golden Hawk was available in a two-door coupe body style that has since become iconic.

Historical Significance

The Studebaker Golden Hawk's impact on automotive design was profound, setting new standards for performance-oriented personal luxury coupes. It differentiated itself from contemporaries with its supercharger—a rarity at the time—and its bold styling that blended speed with luxury. The Golden Hawk's influence can be seen in later grand touring cars that sought to balance opulence with horsepower.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1958 Golden Hawk boasted a supercharged 289 cubic inch V8 engine that propelled it to impressive speeds for its time. With a top speed nearing 125 mph and capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in under 9 seconds, it was among the fastest production cars of its era. On the road, it handled with poise, absorbing bumps while remaining composed through windy conditions. Driving one was an experience filled with sensory delights—from the whine of the supercharger to the throaty roar of the exhaust.

Ownership Experience

The Golden Hawk found its niche among those who appreciated both performance and panache. While some used it as a daily driver or show car, others enjoyed its capabilities on the racing circuit. Maintenance could be demanding given its complex mechanicals, yet many owners found joy in tinkering with their Hawks. Reliability was typical for the period; regular care ensured longevity.

Fun Facts

This classic car boasts several fun facts: it was one of the few models at the time to offer seat belts as an option; it also had celebrity ties, being owned by personalities who appreciated its unique blend of speed and style. While not record-breaking in sales or endurance, it held its own in terms of performance benchmarks for personal luxury cars.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-preserved 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk can fetch anywhere from $60,000 to over $100,000 depending on condition and originality. Approximately 4,356 units were produced in 1958, making them relatively rare finds for collectors. Over time, values have generally appreciated as enthusiasts seek out these icons of American automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk stands as a beacon of mid-century design and engineering prowess—a true jewel in the crown of American automotive heritage. Its blend of power, elegance, and innovation continues to captivate collectors and classic car aficionados alike.

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 45Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair-BN 107Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high-BN 13Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high., with 3/8" I.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D-GF 45Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D., 3-7/16" O.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair-HR 16Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Mirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-B, check dimensions-MP 965-AMirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-B, check dimensions. 1" wide X 7" long. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Mirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-A, check dimensions-MP 965-BMirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-A, check dimensions. 1-1/8" wide X 6-3/4" long. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Rubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights-MP 979-CRubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights. 8-7/8" wide X 10" long. Pair

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Steering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each-SC 24-ASteering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Headlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D-SM 13-AHeadlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk Front Vent Window Seals-WR 9404Front Vent Window Seals. Will not fit Hardtops, only Pillar Models. Each piece 29" long. Pair