Image of 1964 Studebaker Gran, sourced from www.studebakermuseum.org , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk

The 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of the Studebaker Corporation during an era when American automotive design was reaching new heights. As the last iteration of the Hawk line, which debuted in 1956, this model was a refined culmination of its predecessors' best features. The South Bend, Indiana-based manufacturer infused this vehicle with a blend of performance and luxury that was rare for its time. Notably, the '64 model year marked the final chapter for this iconic nameplate, as Studebaker would cease production in the United States by the end of 1963.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk was a harmonious blend of European elegance and American muscle. Its long hood and short rear deck gave it a sporty profile, while the squared-off roofline and broad grille exuded a sense of sophistication. Inside, passengers were greeted with a well-appointed cabin featuring rich materials like vinyl or optional leather upholstery, complemented by elegant woodgrain accents. Technologically, it boasted innovations such as under-dash air conditioning and a self-adjusting clutch for manual transmissions. Color options ranged from dignified Bordeaux Red to striking Astra White, with Strato Blue being a popular choice among enthusiasts. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the two-door hardtop coupe, which perfectly encapsulated the vehicle's grand touring aspirations.

Historical Significance

The 1964 Gran Turismo Hawk's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It represented a mature sports coupe in an age dominated by raw muscle cars. Its unique blend of performance and luxury set it apart from contemporaries like the Ford Thunderbird and Chevrolet Impala. The Hawk's lasting influence can be seen in the personal luxury coupes that gained popularity in the following decades.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Gran Turismo Hawk came equipped with a potent 289 cubic inch V8 engine that could propel it to impressive speeds for its time. While exact top speed figures vary, it could comfortably cruise at highway speeds and beyond. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved briskly in around 10 seconds—a respectable figure for a luxury coupe of its size. On winding roads or over uneven surfaces, drivers appreciated its poised handling characteristics. Behind the wheel, one could enjoy the throaty rumble of its V8 while relishing in a driving experience that balanced comfort with responsiveness.

Ownership Experience

The Gran Turismo Hawk was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver yet distinguished enough to grace show fields or even participate in vintage racing events. Maintenance and reliability were on par with other American cars of the era, with many parts being relatively easy to source or repair thanks to Studebaker's use of industry-standard components.

Fun Facts

A fascinating piece of trivia about this car is that despite its limited production run, it found its way into celebrity garages—most notably belonging to renowned personalities such as Frank Sinatra. Although not known for setting speed records, it did achieve a sales milestone for Studebaker during challenging times for the company. Common criticisms often revolved around its conservative styling compared to more flamboyant competitors.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors cherish the 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk for its rarity and historical significance. With an estimated production number just over 1,700 units, it's not commonly found on the market. Values can range significantly based on condition but typically fall between $15,000 to $35,000 or more for exceptionally preserved examples. The market trend has shown appreciation over time as enthusiasts recognize this model's unique place in automotive history.

Conclusion

In closing, the 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk remains an emblematic piece of Americana—an automobile that encapsulates an era where style met substance on equal terms. Its legacy endures among classic car aficionados who appreciate its blend of elegance, performance, and rarity—a true gran turismo from an age gone by.

1964 Studebaker Gran Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1964 Studebaker Gran 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

1964 Studebaker Gran Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 67Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 5-3/8" long, with 1-3/4" long inner slot. Pair

1964 Studebaker Gran 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

1964 Studebaker Gran 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

1964 Studebaker Gran 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

1964 Studebaker Gran 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

1964 Studebaker Gran 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

1964 Studebaker Gran Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1964 Studebaker Gran Rubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights-MP 979-CRubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights. 8-7/8" wide X 10" long. Pair

1964 Studebaker Gran 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