The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk, a sleek and stylish coupe, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of the American automotive industry. This model year marked a turning point for Studebaker, as they introduced a bold new design language that would define their cars for years to come.
The Silver Hawk, with its low-slung profile, distinctive grille, and sweeping lines, became an instant icon, captivating the imagination of car enthusiasts and capturing the spirit of the era.
The Silver Hawk’s design was a departure from the more conservative styling of previous Studebaker models. The car’s low, wide stance and wraparound windshield gave it a sporty and aggressive appearance, while the distinctive “bullet nose” grille and chrome accents added a touch of luxury.
The Silver Hawk was available in a range of vibrant colors, from classic black and white to more daring shades of red and blue, further enhancing its appeal.
The Studebaker Silver Hawk: A 1950s Icon
The Studebaker Silver Hawk, introduced in 1956, was a sporty coupe that quickly became a symbol of the American automotive landscape in the late 1950s. Its sleek design and powerful engine made it a popular choice for drivers looking for both style and performance.
However, the 1959 model year proved to be particularly significant for the Silver Hawk, as it marked a pivotal point in its evolution and the brand’s overall strategy.
The 1959 Model Year: A Turning Point
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk was more than just a refresh; it represented a major shift in the brand’s design philosophy. Studebaker, facing increasing competition from Detroit’s Big Three, decided to move away from its more conservative styling and embrace a more daring and futuristic aesthetic.
This shift was evident in the 1959 Silver Hawk, which featured a redesigned front end with a distinctive “bullet nose” grille and wraparound windshield, giving it a decidedly modern look.
Engine and Performance
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk was a stylish and sporty car that offered a range of engine options to suit different driving preferences. These engines provided a blend of power and efficiency, making the Silver Hawk a desirable choice for both performance enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
Engine Options
The 1959 Silver Hawk was available with three engine choices:
- The base engine was a 259 cubic inch (4.2-liter) straight-six engine that produced 150 horsepower. This engine provided a smooth and reliable driving experience, making it suitable for everyday driving.
- A more powerful option was the 289 cubic inch (4.7-liter) V8 engine, which generated 210 horsepower. This engine offered a significant performance boost, making the Silver Hawk a more spirited performer.
- The top-of-the-line engine was a 352 cubic inch (5.8-liter) V8 engine that produced a robust 275 horsepower. This engine was reserved for the high-performance Silver Hawk models, providing thrilling acceleration and top speed.
Performance Characteristics
The different engine options resulted in varying performance characteristics.
- The 259 cubic inch straight-six engine provided a comfortable and fuel-efficient driving experience, making it a good choice for daily commutes and long road trips.
- The 289 cubic inch V8 engine offered a significant increase in power, allowing for quicker acceleration and higher top speeds. This engine made the Silver Hawk a more enjoyable car to drive on winding roads and highways.
- The 352 cubic inch V8 engine was the most powerful option, providing exhilarating acceleration and impressive top speed. This engine transformed the Silver Hawk into a true performance car, capable of competing with other high-performance models of the time.
Transmission and Drivetrain, 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk was equipped with a three-speed automatic transmission as standard. A four-speed manual transmission was available as an option, providing a more engaging driving experience for those who preferred manual shifting. The Silver Hawk utilized a rear-wheel drive system, which provided a balanced and predictable handling experience.
Interior and Features
The Studebaker Silver Hawk’s interior was a departure from the spartan designs of earlier Studebakers, offering a blend of luxury and practicality. It was a space that emphasized comfort and style, reflecting the changing tastes of the American car buyer in the late 1950s.
Interior Design and Materials
The Silver Hawk’s interior was a testament to Studebaker’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The dashboard was designed with a clean, modern aesthetic, featuring a wraparound design that gave the driver a sense of spaciousness. The instrument panel was neatly organized, and the controls were easy to reach and use.
The seats were upholstered in high-quality materials, such as leather or cloth, and offered ample comfort for both the driver and passengers. The interior color schemes were bold and stylish, with a range of options available to suit individual preferences.
Standard and Optional Features
The Silver Hawk came standard with a range of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These included:
- Power steering
- Power brakes
- Automatic transmission
- Radio
- Heater
The Silver Hawk also offered a selection of optional features, allowing buyers to customize their cars to their specific needs and desires. These options included:
- Air conditioning
- Power windows
- Power seats
- A variety of interior trim options
Comfort and Convenience
The Silver Hawk was designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The spacious interior provided ample legroom and headroom for both the driver and passengers. The seats were well-padded and supportive, offering a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The car’s suspension was designed to provide a smooth and quiet ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road.
The Silver Hawk’s well-designed interior and thoughtful features made it a comfortable and enjoyable car to drive.
Production and Sales
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk, a stylish and powerful car, was produced in limited numbers, reflecting its position as a premium offering within the Studebaker lineup. Understanding its production figures and sales performance provides insight into its market reception and overall impact.
Production Numbers
The 1959 Silver Hawk was produced in a relatively small number, highlighting its status as a luxury model.
- Total Production:Approximately 3,500 units were produced, making it a rare and desirable car today.
Marketing and Advertising Strategies
Studebaker employed a variety of marketing and advertising strategies to promote the Silver Hawk, emphasizing its distinctive styling, performance, and luxurious features.
- Print Advertisements:Magazines like -Life* and -Time* featured eye-catching ads showcasing the Silver Hawk’s sleek design and powerful engine.
- Television Commercials:Studebaker utilized television commercials to reach a wider audience, highlighting the car’s sporty handling and luxurious interior.
- Dealer Promotions:Studebaker dealerships offered incentives and special promotions to attract buyers, emphasizing the Silver Hawk’s value proposition.
Sales Performance
The 1959 Silver Hawk faced stiff competition from other American luxury cars, and its sales performance reflected the challenging market conditions.
- Sales Figures:While exact sales figures are difficult to obtain, estimates suggest that the Silver Hawk sold moderately well, but it did not achieve the sales success of some of its competitors.
- Comparison to Competitors:Compared to the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Thunderbird, and Chrysler 300, the Silver Hawk’s sales were lower, but it still held its own in the competitive luxury car market.
Legacy and Impact: 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk
The Studebaker Silver Hawk, a shining star of the 1950s automotive scene, left an enduring mark on the industry and the cultural landscape. Its sleek design, powerful engine, and innovative features not only captured the imagination of car enthusiasts but also influenced the direction of automotive design and marketing for years to come.
Cultural Significance
The Silver Hawk became a symbol of the American dream in the 1950s, representing a time of economic prosperity and social change. Its bold styling and luxurious features appealed to a generation that was eager to embrace the latest trends and technologies.
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk, with its sleek design and powerful engine, was a standout in the automotive world. But did you know that Studebaker had a rich history dating back to the 1940s? The 1949 Studebaker 2R5 was a significant model that paved the way for the Silver Hawk and other iconic Studebaker vehicles.
The 1959 Silver Hawk, with its distinctive styling and advanced features, built upon the legacy of earlier models like the 2R5, proving that Studebaker was a brand that consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive innovation.
The car was often seen in popular movies and television shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture. Its distinctive design and powerful engine made it a favorite among celebrities and athletes, adding to its mystique and desirability.
Collector’s Interest
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors alike, making it a sought-after classic. Its sleek design, powerful engine, and unique features continue to attract admirers, driving its value and desirability in the collector’s market.
Value and Desirability of Different Models and Conditions
The value of a 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk varies significantly based on model, condition, and rarity.
- Silver Hawk R-1:The most sought-after model, featuring a powerful 289 cubic inch V8 engine and distinctive styling cues. These models command the highest prices in the collector’s market.
- Silver Hawk R-2:Equipped with a slightly less powerful 259 cubic inch V8 engine, this model is still highly desirable, but typically fetches lower prices than the R-1.
- Silver Hawk:The base model, featuring a 259 cubic inch V8 engine and standard features. While less rare than the R-1 and R-2, these models are still popular among collectors.
The condition of a Silver Hawk plays a crucial role in its value.
- Concours Condition:A meticulously restored Silver Hawk in pristine condition, exhibiting no signs of wear or tear. These cars are highly prized and command top dollar.
- Show Condition:A well-restored Silver Hawk with minimal signs of wear or tear, ready for car shows and events. These cars are still highly desirable and fetch significant prices.
- Driver Condition:A Silver Hawk in good working order but with some signs of wear and tear. These cars are ideal for driving and enjoying, but their value is typically lower than concours or show condition cars.
- Project Condition:A Silver Hawk in need of restoration or repair. These cars can be a good investment for those with the time and resources to bring them back to their former glory.
Restoration and Preservation Resources
Restoring a 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor. Fortunately, a network of resources exists to assist collectors in their restoration efforts.
- Studebaker International Club:A dedicated organization providing resources, support, and guidance for Studebaker enthusiasts, including restoration information and parts sourcing.
- Studebaker Parts Suppliers:Several specialized suppliers offer a wide range of parts for Studebaker vehicles, including the Silver Hawk.
- Online Forums and Communities:Numerous online forums and communities provide a platform for collectors to connect, share information, and seek advice on restoration and preservation.
Closing Notes
The 1959 Studebaker Silver Hawk remains a coveted classic, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its unique design, impressive performance, and enduring legacy continue to make it a symbol of automotive excellence. Whether cruising down a highway or parked in a garage, the Silver Hawk’s timeless appeal continues to turn heads and inspire admiration.
