1962 Studebaker Hawk

Despite a tight budget, Brooks Stevens has succeeded in deeply (and tastefully) updating both the Lark and the Hawk. In the case of the latter, modifications include a squarer roofline, the removal of pillars to resurrect a hardtop coupe among the Hawk’s series, the removal of the dated fins, and the addition of chrome rocker panels and trim around the wheel arches. A four-speed manual gearbox with floor shifter is now available as an option. Under this new guise, the GT Hawk aspires at becoming a true personal luxury coupe.


Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp; and V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp. Export: an inline six, 2.8-litre, 112 hp is also available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Four-speed manual transmission (V-8 only) and three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1963 Studebaker Hawk

The efforts made to update the 1962 Hawk cannot be renewed every year for cash-stranded Studebaker. Hence, this year’s car is unchanged, apart from some minor trim alterations. Still, some mechanical improvements taken from the new Avanti are offered as options: power brakes and “R1” (240 hp) and supercharged “R2” (289 hp) engines are the most important among them.


Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 240 hp; and supercharged V-8, 4.7-litre, 289 hp. Export: an inline six, 2.8-litre, 112 hp is also available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Four-speed manual transmission (V-8 only) and three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Discs on front wheels, drums on rear wheels optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1964 Studebaker Hawk

The GT Hawk returns among Studebaker’s range for 1964, but this does not last: in December 1963, the company’s production is transferred to Canada, but the exclusive Avanti and Hawk do not make the trip across the border.


Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 240 hp; and supercharged V-8, 4.7-litre, 289 hp. Export: an inline six, 2.8-litre, 112 hp is also available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Four-speed manual transmission (V-8 only) and three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Discs on front wheels, drums on rear wheels optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1961 Studebaker Hawk

The Hawk remains once again basically unchanged, except for a modified trim on the rear fins.


Studebaker Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp; and V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp. Export: an inline six, 2.8-litre, 112 hp is also available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe.


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1960 Studebaker Hawk

The main change this year is the simplification of this model’s name - without no other variant, the Silver Hawk simply becomes the Hawk. Under the bonnet though, the potent 4.7-litre V-8 returns.


Studebaker Hawk
The underpowered Hawk six is still offered, but mostly to export markets.

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 90 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp; V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp; V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp; and V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe.


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1959 Studebaker Hawk

With the introduction of Studebaker’s compact car, the Lark, the whole range is modified an adopt a lower profile. Still based on the previous generation of full-sizes cars, the Hawk is retained as the company’s flagship, but only in Silver Hawk form.


Studebaker Silver Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 90 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp; and V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe.


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1958 Studebaker Hawk

The Hawk series continues virtually unchanged in 1958, meaning that it comprises some of the rare American automobiles this year not to have adopted quad headlights.


Studebaker Silver Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1956 for the Silver Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp. Optional engines on export cars: V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp; V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe, two-door hardtop coupe (for export only).


Studebaker Golden Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk series. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 275 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1957 Studebaker Hawk

The Hawk line is greatly reduced this year, the new Silver Hawk replacing all of the models gone. All cars sport very long and tall rear fins grafted onto their rear wings.


Studebaker Silver Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1956 for the Silver Hawk. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engines: V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp; and V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp. Optional engines on export cars: V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp; V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe, two-door hardtop coupe (for export only).


Studebaker Golden Hawk
Taking notice of the handling problems of last year’s Golden Hawk, Studebaker solved the problem in a cunning way: getting rid of the heavy Packard V-8, it now fits to its flagship automobile the same “289” engine as on the President and V-8 Silver Hawk, but boosted by the use of a supercharger. This way, the 1957 Golden Hawk provides as much power as it did previously, but the much smaller and lighter engine helps reaching a much better weight balance.

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk series. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 275 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1956 Studebaker Hawk

As Studebaker’s range is face-lifted for 1956, sedans and wagons on one hand, coupes on the other part ways. While the former become very conventional cars after being updated by Vince Gardner, the coupes now form a separate Hawk series. Considered the company’s flagships, these cars still benefit from Raymond Loewy’s work, despite the high expenses charged by the French-American designer to the impoverished company. All Hawks feature a large, square grille rendered necessary by the adoption of the big and heavy Packard V-8 on its top-of-the-line versions.


Studebaker Flight Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk series. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe, two-door hardtop coupe (for export only).


Studebaker Power Hawk
This is basically the same car as Flight Hawk, but fitted with a V-8 engine.

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk series. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 170 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door coupe.


Studebaker Sky Hawk

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk series. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 518 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


Studebaker Golden Hawk
The Golden Hawk follows the steps of last year’s President Speedster. Unlike other Hawks, it sports small fibreglass fins at the rear - the same artifice is used on the company’s wagons. Under the bonnet is Packard’s 5.8-litre V-8 - though it provides a huge amount of power, it also adds a lot of weight onto the front axle, negatively affecting the car’s handling. The manual gearbox is fitted with a standard overdrive, but can be upgraded to Packard’s optional Twin-Ultramatic automatic transmission.

● Introduction: 1952 for the original full-size Studebaker, 1955 for the Hawk series. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 5.8-litre, 275 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 520 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1953 Studebaker Full-Sizes

Forging ahead of competition in terms of style, Studebaker totally redesigns its cars. Once again, they are penned by Raymond Loewy’s studio, more precisely by Robert Bourke, instead of Studebaker’s in-house design department. They feature a low appearance with an original sloping front end sporting two small half-grilles. Coupes uses the same overall style, but their bodies are different, being lower and longer than the sedans’. As it used to be last year, six lines form Studebaker’s range. Models as the long-wheelbase Land Cruiser, the Starlight coupe (now with a standard rear window) and the Starliner hardtop are carried over, but no convertible is offered.

Disc brakes are tested on some new Studebakers with a technical cooperation from Bendix, but this brave attempt goes nowhere. Power steering makes it to the options list, though.


Studebaker Champion Custom

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 85 hp, mounted at the front. A high-compression version of this engine is available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 504 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Champion Deluxe
● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 85 hp, mounted at the front. A high-compression version of this engine is available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 504 cm (sedans), 514 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe.


Studebaker Champion Regal

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 85 hp, mounted at the front. A high-compression version of this engine is available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 504 cm (sedans), 514 cm (coupes). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe, two-door “Starliner” hardtop coupe.


Studebaker Commander Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.8-litre, 120 hp, mounted at the front. A high-compression version of this engine is available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 504 cm (sedans), 514 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe.


Studebaker Commander Regal

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.8-litre, 120 hp, mounted at the front. A high-compression version of this engine is available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 504 cm (sedan), 514 cm (coupes). Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe, two-door “Starliner” hardtop coupe.


Studebaker Commander Land Cruiser

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.8-litre, 120 hp, mounted at the front. A high-compression version of this engine is available. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 515 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


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1954 Studebaker Full-Sizes

Though cosmetic changes are minor, but 1954 sees the introduction of a two-door station wagon, reserved to the better-appointed series. Studebaker capitalizes a lot on this new vehicle, introducing during the year an “Ambulet” option package that turns any of its wagons into an ambulance.

The Commander’s V-8 gains a few horsepower, but Studebaker remains far behind the competition in terms of performance, an unbalance that cannot be totally compensated anymore by the lighter weight of its cars.


Studebaker Champion Custom

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 85 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 504 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Champion Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 85 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 497 cm (wagon), 504 cm (sedans), 514 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Champion Regal

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 85 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 497 cm (wagon), 504 cm (sedans), 514 cm (coupes). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe, two-door “Starliner” hardtop coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.8-litre, 127 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 497 cm (wagon), 504 cm (sedans), 514 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Regal

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.8-litre, 127 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 497 cm (wagon), 504 cm (sedan), 514 cm (coupes). Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan, two-door “Starlight” coupe, two-door “Starliner” hardtop coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Land Cruiser

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.8-litre, 127 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 515 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


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1955 Studebaker Full-Sizes

The President is back! Absent since 1942, this prestigious Studebaker returns as the most luxurious model on offer. All of its variants use a long-wheelbase chassis, pushing the Land Cruiser into retirement. On all cars, a new grille in one massive block replaces the double-unit used for the last two years. Other noticeable are the adoption of a new V-8 engine, the introduction of power brakes as an option, an the disappearance of the names “Starliner” and “Starlight” to designate the coupe and hardtop versions.

Many modifications are brought to the cars during the year, from then on dubbed “Ultra Vista” models. Starting on New Year, a “Wide-View” wraparound windshield replaces the conventional one on all sedans and wagons - caring for their sporty silhouettes, Studebaker’s engineers don’t fit them to the coupes, which nonetheless receive a new two-tone treatment. The expensive President Speedster coupe is an addition to the range. Other mid-year improvements include the adoption of the President’s V-8 on all Commander, and the availability of both air conditioning on all V-8-powered cars, and power seats on all models.

Quite disturbing is the internal study made at Studebaker, that demonstrates that the company’s workers are the best paid in the industry, but are far from the most productive. Thanks to this generous policy, Studebaker had never had a strike, even during the dark years of the Depression, but it is computed that selling 282,000 cars per year is necessary just to avoid recording losses - in 1954, only 82,000 automobiles have been produced. Trying to get its workers to agree to work extra time for the same salary, Studebaker’s management only succeed in igniting a labour conflict - the company’s disastrous first strike lingers thirty-six days, until March 1955.


Studebaker Champion Custom

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Champion Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 502 cm (wagon), 514 cm (sedans), 519 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Champion Regal

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 502 cm (wagon), 514 cm (sedans), 519 cm (coupes). Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan, two-door coupe, two-door hardtop coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Custom

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.7-litre, 140 hp, mounted at the front (up to mid-year). From mid-year: V-8, 4.2-litre, 162 hp. Optional engines: V-8, 3.7-litre, 160 hp (up to mid-year); and V-8, 4.2-litre, 182 hp (from mid-year). Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 502 cm (wagon), 514 cm (sedans), 519 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Commander Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.7-litre, 140 hp, mounted at the front (up to mid-year). From mid-year: V-8, 4.2-litre, 162 hp. Optional engines: V-8, 3.7-litre, 160 hp (up to mid-year); and V-8, 4.2-litre, 182 hp (from mid-year). Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 502 cm (wagon), 514 cm (sedans), 519 cm (coupe). Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Regal

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 3.7-litre, 140 hp, mounted at the front (up to mid-year). From mid-year: V-8, 4.2-litre, 162 hp. Optional engines: V-8, 3.7-litre, 160 hp (up to mid-year); and V-8, 4.2-litre, 182 hp (from mid-year). Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 502 cm (wagon), 514 cm (sedan), 519 cm (coupes). Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan, two-door coupe, two-door hardtop coupe, two-door “Conestoga” station wagon.


Studebaker President Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1954 for the President. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 175 hp, mounted at the front (up to mid-year). From mid-year: V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 524 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


Studebaker President State

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1954 for the President. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 175 hp, mounted at the front (up to mid-year). From mid-year: V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 519 cm (coupes), 524 cm (sedan). Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan, two-door coupe, two-door hardtop coupe.


Studebaker President Speedster

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, January 1955 for the President Speedster. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 519 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door hardtop coupe.


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1956 Studebaker Full-Sizes

While Studebaker expects a brand-new generation of cars for 1957, its current range is heavily updated in the meantime. Out is traditional designer Raymond Loewy, deemed too expensive while the company’s coffers are empty. In his place, Studebaker hires one of his former employees, Vince Gardner, who proposes a totally new, though very conventional-looking automobile. The sloping nose is replaced by a tall and wide grille at the front, and the gently-flowing lines of the rear wings are replaced by very angular fins. To some extents, this year’s Studebakers somehow look a little bit as Virgil Exner’s 1955 Chryslers. The inside is also new, Duncan McRae having designed a totally new dashboard with “Cyclop’s Eye” speedometer.

Note that all coupes are now included in a separate Hawk series.


Studebaker Champion Custom
● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 510 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


Studebaker Champion Deluxe
The new Sedanet is a simplified version of the standard sedan, that sells at a discounted price.

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 510 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Sedanet” sedan, two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Champion Regal
Produced for export markets, the Champion Regal combines the trim of the President with the economy of the smaller six.
● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 510 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan. Note: though built for export, a single Champion Regal is sold in the United States.


Studebaker Pelham

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1955 for the Pelham wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 500 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Custom
● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 170 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 510 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


Studebaker Commander Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 170 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 510 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Sedanet” sedan, two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Parkview

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1955 for the Parkview wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 170 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 185 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 500 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door station wagon.


Studebaker President

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1954 for the President. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 190 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 510 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker President Classic

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1954 for the President. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 520 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


Studebaker Pinehurst

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1955 for the Parkview wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 190 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 500 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door station wagon.


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1957 Studebaker Full-Sizes

The beginning of the 1957 model year marks the end of a few difficult months for Studebaker. Abandoned by the banks during the spring, the company has seemed momentarily doomed but, by May, an intricate deal with the Curtiss-Wright Aircraft Corporation has brought salvation. The agreement includes the input of fresh cash into Studebaker’s coffers and a contract to distribute Mercedes-Benz automobiles in the United States through Studebaker-Packard dealerships. Unfortunately, this puts an end to the ambitious 1957 program. Instead of a brand-new car to be shared between Studebaker and Clipper, plus a new Packard, the company has to content itself with yet another facelift. Entrusted to Duncan McRae, it features a new grille, rather elegant indeed, an revised side trim - the very limited budget has not allowed for more. New models include the Scotsman, a bare version of the Champion that is cheaper than most other Detroit products; and a long-awaited four-door wagon.


Studebaker Scotsman
The extremely plain Scotsman is introduced during the model year, initially called a Champion Scotsman. It explores deeper the concept introduced last year by the “Sedanet” versions. Automatic transmission, all power equipment and radio are not available on the Scotsman.

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1957 for the Scotsman. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door station wagon.


Studebaker Champion Custom

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Club” sedan, four-door sedan, two-door station wagon (for export only).


Studebaker Champion Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Club” sedan, four-door sedan. Note: a single four-door station wagon is also produced.


Studebaker Champion Regal
Produced for export markets, the Champion Regal combines the trim of the President with the economy of the smaller six.

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


Studebaker Pelham
● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1955 for the Pelham wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled inline six, 2.8-litre, 101 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door station wagon.


Studebaker Commander Custom

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Club” sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Commander Deluxe

● Introduction: 1952. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Club” sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker Parkview

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1955 for the Parkview wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door station wagon.


Studebaker Provincial

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1956 for the Provincial wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.2-litre, 180 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.2-litre, 195 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door station wagon.


Studebaker President Regal

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1954 for the President. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: two-door “Club” sedan, four-door sedan.


Studebaker President Classic

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1954 for the President. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp, mounted at the front. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 524 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door sedan.


Studebaker Broadmoor

● Introduction: 1952 for this generation of Studebaker, 1956 for the Broadmoor wagon. Construction: body on separate chassis. Engine: water-cooled V-8, 4.7-litre, 210 hp, mounted at the front. Optional engine: V-8, 4.7-litre, 225 hp. Transmission: to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual gearbox. Three-speed automatic gearbox optional. Suspension: independent at the front, rigid axle at the rear. Brakes: hydraulic, to drums on all four wheels. Servo optional. Length: 514 cm. Top speed: n/a. Range: four-door station wagon.


Any mistake you’ve just spotted? A detail to add? A suggestion? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment!

Click to jump to another model year of the same car: 1953 – 1954 – 1955 – 1956 – 1957 – 1958
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