An Interesting 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk

This 1956 Golden Hawk has had an interesting and unique history.  It was bought about 4 years ago from the attorney who represented the previous owner of Richmond International Raceway, (RIR).  It was stated that the original intention was to open a museum featuring unique cars in America but, with the death of the RIR owner, the plans were shelved and RIR was sold. 

Shortly after the car was purchased,  a complete frame off restoration was undertaken and virtually every part that would come off, was taken off and restored, refurbished, and or replaced essentially in the same detailed manner of the other listed cars.  Metal work included the usual rust elimination and included new sub-floor and trunk components from Classic Enterprises.  And as with all of this collection, no pop rivets, no short cuts, and no Bondo to cover rust. 

Some have said that the 1956 Golden Hawk (GH) comes with extra challenges because of its unique parts, expenses, and handling issue.  Of the three 56 GH’s in this collection, this is the one that adequately addresses these commonly held beliefs.  While it looks like any other well done  1956 GH, it handles like a 60's Gran Turismo as it has such a frame that includes, heavy duty front and rear sway bars, disc brakes, and above all, it is not involved in the Packard drive train/weight issue as it has a 289 Studebaker motor/transmission.  As one can see from the pictures, it looks identical to its  Packard relative, but once you drive this  car; and once you have to buy Packard engine parts or seek transmission service you will quickly appreciate this unique beauty even more. 

This car was finished with Dupont Nason Fullthane 2k Polyurathane on top 2K urathane Primer and has a complete Phantom Auto interior. 

Additional photos:  1956 Golden Hawk Pictures