Rust-Free Garage Find: 1963 Studebaker GT Hawk Needs TLC

The Hawk series was a follow-up to the President-based Speedster of 1955. Initially, the lineup included four separate models, topped by the iconic Golden Hawk. In 1959, the Silver Hawk remained the sole model of the series, replaced by the Hawk in 1960. In 1962, Studebaker commissioned Brooks Stevens to restyle the Hawk. Thus, the Gran Turismo Hawk, the final iteration of the series, was born.

The GT Hawk debuted with a fairly significant facelift. Although much of the front and rear fascias remained unchanged, the roofline was heavily inspired by the Ford Thunderbird, featuring a square appearance with thick C-pillars. The radiator grille got a thicker frame with a Mercedes-Benz-style grille. Stevens also removed the 1950s rear fins.

The makeover was well received, but Studebaker sold only 9,335 GT Hawks in 1962. The following year, sales dropped to only 4,634 examples, and the wheels were already in motion to close the South Bend plant. Before that happened in December 1963, Studebaker produced 1,772 1964-model-year cars. The GT Hawk went into the history books as Studebaker's last flagship.

Even though it's not particularly rare by production numbers, the GT Hawk is a rarely-seen classic today. That's mostly because many examples were abandoned in junkyards and barns after Studebaker went belly up. Fortunately enough, some enthusiasts kept their GT Hawks running for decades, and some found their way into the modern era still in one piece. This turquoise 1963 hardtop is one of them.

Hailing from Limerick, Maine, this Studebaker has been sitting in a garage since 2017. The story goes that it was retired to have its timing cover gasket replaced, but the owner died before completing the repairs. Despite sitting for around seven years, the GT Hawk is still in good condition, and the engine still runs.

The radiator and other parts have been removed, so the engine compartment needs some work before this Studebaker drives again. The brakes also need replacing, and an overall check-up of the drivetrain is highly recommended.

Otherwise, the GT Hawk is rust-free at first glance, and the seller claims the frame is also clean. The paint is far from perfect, but it still shines. The interior needs a bit more work. The buyer will have to deal with cracks in the front seats and grime on the door panels and carpets.

It's unclear if the Studebaker was restored, but the odometer shows 91,110 miles (146,627 km). If the reading is true, then this GT Hawk may be a proper survivor. The hardtop is being auctioned off without reserve, and 50 bids have pushed the price to $6,500 with less than 24 hours to go. Is this GT Hawk worth restoring?