Vehicle manufacturers walk a fine line when devising the color palettes for their various models. They must ensure the paint shades are relatively inoffensive, but they often leave something available for those seeking a more “flamboyant” look. Studebaker was one of the brands that erred on the side of caution, but this retina-searing 1963 Gran Turismo Hawk is anything but conservative. It isn’t even on speaking terms with that word, and it would undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes. Its most pressing need is a new home, with the seller listing it here on Craigslist in Indianapolis, Indiana. They set a price of $12,500 for the Hawk, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting it.

Before we delve into the story of this Studebaker, I must address the elephant in the room. The supplied photos of this classic are both low-quality and date-stamped for 2016. A lot can happen in seven years, and the seller has done themselves no favors with their approach to the listing. Okay, now I’ve got that off my chest, let’s proceed. The seller quickly denies responsibility for this Hawk’s custom paint job, suggesting they aren’t willing to shoulder the blame for its appearance. It is unclear what color originally graced its panels, but my instincts tell me that the car now wears Sub Lime, a shade that formed part of the Chrysler Corporation’s paint range from 1970. The shine looks pretty impressive, although assessing the overall presentation and condition is limited by the supplied photos. The panels also sport a “floral” theme on the hood, C-Pillars, and the back section of the roof. I initially thought these were decals, but it looks like someone may have applied them with an airbrush. The work seems consistent across all surfaces, and if the new owner chooses to preserve this classic in its current form, they will represent a conversation starter at a show or a Cars & Coffee. Some trim pieces look tired, and I’m unsure whether they would respond to a high-quality polish. The glass appears okay, and the original wheels retain their correct hubcaps and are wrapped in classy whitewalls.

This Hawk’s interior is a mixed bag. The seller adds to the general confusion in the listing by describing it as new. However, the seatcovers and carpet are the only items I can spot that could wear that tag. The dash retains its correct gauges and pushbutton AM radio, with the factory under-dash air conditioning system intact. The pad and door trims look okay. However, the rear trims have tired and faded lower carpet, and the same is true of the dash timber. Those items are probably due for replacement, and I’ve seen owners achieve wonders on the dash using faux woodgrain vinyl. The rear trim could be more challenging, but a competent upholsterer might be able to replace the carpet without breaking the bank. Some plated items are pitted or peeling and may be beyond salvation. However, it is worth noting that any interior faults fall into the non-urgent category. The buyer could address them as parts appear because it is serviceable in its current form.

The seller not only doesn’t supply any engine photos, but he throws a slice of confusion into the mix when describing its mechanical specifications. They refer to the engine as a “V8 259,” which isn’t correct if this car retains its original drivetrain. The motor should be a 289, which feeds its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. We can speculate on the available power if it is a 289 because it could range from 210hp to 240hp. The seller mentions a four-barrel carburetor, suggesting the higher figure could be accurate. They have splashed some cash under the skin, with this Studebaker receiving new front shocks, air shocks in the back, a new fuel tank, a sender unit, new tires, a new exhaust, and other parts that aren’t specified. They include the original Build Sheet and state that this Hawk runs and drives well.

The expression “a face only a mother could love” could easily have been coined for this 1963 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk. The color won’t appeal to everyone, meaning the seller will probably have a limited pool of potential buyers. However, the classic world is unpredictable, and there will undoubtedly be people out there longing to park it in their garage. Will that happen? Only time will tell.