• Seller: Nick N ichols
• Location: San Francisco, California
• Mileage: 90,000 Shown
• Chassis #: 6101866
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: Supercharged 304 V8
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

Choosing which path to pursue with a modified barn find is often challenging. Some enthusiasts feel that returning the car to its factory form is appropriate, while others wish to recapture the creator’s vision for their custom classic. This 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk is a perfect example of that thinking. It was uncovered in a barn in 2017, a spot it had occupied since 1974. It features a fascinating backstory, and the upgraded drivetrain places plenty of power under the driver’s right foot. There is scope for the winning bidder to place their mark on a car the owner has listed exclusively with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

Purchasing a classic with a fascinating history is always tempting, and this Golden Hawk certainly meets that criteria. Its second owner bought it in 1959, modifying and driving the car regularly until parking it in a barn in 1974. The next owner became its custodian in 2017, and it received a comprehensive mechanical refurbishment in 2018 to ensure it was roadworthy and ready for motoring fun. However, the owner decided to leave its appearance in its “as-found” state as a tribute to the life it led. The Midnight Black and Arctic White paint is aged, with minor dings and dents visible. It would undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes, but this is where there is an opportunity for the winning bidder to personalize this gem. Performing a cosmetic refresh would be straightforward. The dings and dents are insignificant; the buyer could address them in a home workshop. It is a similar story with rust, which is confined to small areas in the lower front fenders and rear quarter panels. Eliminating the problems would not entail wholesale panel replacement because well-crafted patches would serve the purpose. The glass looks excellent for its age, with no significant scratches or defects. Some trim pieces may require a trip to the platers, but most look comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic. The owner hasn’t fitted the hubcaps because he prefers the current look. However, he includes them if the buyer chooses a more stock appearance.

Many people underestimate the ’57 Golden Hawk, but it was a genuinely potent package in its day. Studebaker bolted a McCulloch supercharger to the top of its 289ci V8, resulting in an engine generating 275hp and 333 ft/lbs of torque. The original owner ordered this classic with a three-speed automatic transmission, and comparison tests in 1957 revealed that this car gave the Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet Corvette, and Chrysler 300C a run for their money. Since then, much water has passed under the bridge, and this Golden Hawk has evolved considerably. The second owner converted the car to a four-speed manual operated by a Hurst shifter, fitting traction bars, and Glasspacks. They also swapped the original 289 for a 259 at some point, but thankfully, they retained the supercharger. The third owner refreshed the drivetrain in 2018, spending over $26,000 to bring the car to its current state. He had the 259 bored to 304ci and fully rebuilt. The supercharger, transmission, brakes, and other components received similar attention, ensuring this is a turnkey proposition for the winning bidder. The goal was to create a practical daily driver, and they achieved this objective. The current owner wouldn’t hesitate to drive it anywhere, describing the car as very fast. Considering the base from which they worked, that claim is readily believable.

This Studebaker’s interior is a surprise packet because its presentation is extremely tidy. I find that quite appealing because it provides a striking contrast between it and the exterior that many will respect. Its bucket seats are from a Hawk GT, and the carpet is new. The vinyl presents well throughout, which is impressive for an unrestored Golden Hawks. The headliner looks excellent, and the dashpad is spotless. The highlight is undoubtedly the machine-turned dash. It is almost a work of modern art, accommodating a complete set of original gauges. There are no aftermarket additions beyond the front seats, and the AM radio occupies its rightful place, although the seller admits the radio isn’t currently working. Everything else works as it should, including every light and gauge.

This 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk has a story to tell, and nobody has tried to hide its history. Its exterior isn’t perfect, but it seems to carry the flaws with grace and elegance. Preserving it in its current form is viable, but so is the idea of a cosmetic restoration. Whichever path the buyer chooses, they will slip behind the wheel of a genuine sleeper car. That makes it worth pursuing further.

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