1956 Studebaker Sky Hawk Hardtop

Studebaker's coupes that appeared in 1953 wore styling courtesy of Bob Bourke of Raymond Loewy and Associates. In 1956, he was given the task of creating an all-new appearance, this time on a very tight budget. The four new models of the 1956 Studebaker Hawks had modern styling with small fins at the rear, two-tone colors, a bold front grille, and sculptured sides. The Sky Hawk came without fins and was equipped with the 289 cubic-inch Studebaker V8.

This particular example was delivered new by Lathrop G. Hoffman, the dealer on Beverly Hill's Wilshire Boulevard. It is believed that its original owner retained the car for four decades. The next owner was Art Astor. Currently, it is a sympathetically restored example that has been refinished in its original two-tone white and blue color combination. The chrome has been recently replated, and the stainless trim is original. Inside, the blue and white two-tone interior is original, the dashboard and steering are original, and the carpets are new.

The car has a radio, clock, power antenna, dual chromed exhaust tips, wide whitewalls, and original documentation.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2015