What happened to the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk?
This was a gorgeous car as you can see from these pictures. Great lines, luxury styling, and just a sleek, cool look. To save the financially-troubled company the car was redesigned by Brooks Stevens in only a few months and with a minuscule budget. There were influences from Mercedes Benz in the front grille, the tail lights were similar to those of the Lincoln Continental, and the roof was reminiscent of the Thunderbird.
The final 1964 version, of which only 1,767 cars were sold.
Even though the redesign was successful both with critics and the general consumer public; however, "No matter how beautiful the car, how spectacular its performance, or how much praise the critics heaped on it — and they did — buyers were afraid to buy what might become an "orphan." "
Here is one version of the story here. You should also check out the Studebaker history, the Studebaker Museum in South Bend, Indiana, its Museum Shop, and the Studebaker Drivers Club, Inc.
Images: Publications International, Ltd., Canadiandriver.com
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The 1962 Gran Turismo Hawk was pre-dated by the 1957 – 1961 venerated Studebaker Silver and Golden Hawks – which resembled the 1962 Gran Turismo Hawk with the addition of large fins (which were popular during the prior period). All of the Hawks are amazing cars. See a Golden Hawk here – http://tinyurl.com/6pn3yc