There are many ways for an owner to describe a beloved classic, but the seller keeps it simple by describing this 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk as fun to drive. It is a rock-solid vehicle, and with the seller recently spending thousands below the skin, it is a turnkey proposition. It is ideal for someone seeking a distinctive classic, and with the bidding now above the reserve, this Studebaker is days away from finding a new home.

The Silver Hawk joined Studebaker’s model range in 1957, featuring distinctive styling that was penned by Robert Bourke. It was essentially a more affordable version of the company’s Golden Hawk and remained on sale until 1959. This Silver Hawk rolled off the line in 1958, with the first owner choosing to cloak its exterior in Parchment White. Studebaker offered two-tone paint combinations, but not in this form where the contrasting color was applied solely to the fins. Therefore, the Glasgow Gray on this car was probably applied by the selling dealer. The car presents well, although the seller admits it isn’t perfect. A close inspection will reveal a few minor flaws and blemishes, leaving the winning bidder to choose between preservation and restoration. What impresses me the most about this classic is its rust-free state. Steel penetration was a major issue with these cars, but the exterior and underside shots reveal nothing more severe than areas of dry surface corrosion. The seller confirms that most of the trim has made a trip to the platers, but there are still items that would benefit from TLC. The glass is clear, and the chrome wheels and Baby Moon hubcaps are a later addition.

Buyers could order a Silver Hawk with the company’s 185ci six that provided respectable performance. However, this car’s first owner selected the range-topping 289ci V8 that placed 225hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal. They teamed the V8 with a three-speed Flightomatic transmission, a Twin Traction rear end, and power-assisted steering and brakes. The seller indicates that they recently spent a considerable sum on this classic, replacing the master cylinder, booster, wheel cylinders, and brake lines. The generator is new, as are the belts, plugs, fuel pump, and tires. Rounding out the list of work is a rebuild for the original carburetor. That list makes it unsurprising that this Silver Hawk is a turnkey proposition. They describe the car as fun to drive, a claim I find readily believable.

The difference between the Silver Hawk and its more expensive sibling becomes abundantly clear when we compare interiors. The Silver Hawk’s trim materials are less luxurious, owners receives a bench seat, and there were fewer gauges for the driver to monitor. However, I am willing to forgive those shortcomings because it scored a similar and beautiful machined aluminum dash fascia. The overall presentation is tidy and serviceable, with no significant needs or shortcomings. The driver’s kick panel is missing and there are a few imperfections on the upholstered surfaces, but the buyer could address these when, or if, they feel it is necessary. The factory radio has made way for a retro-style unit, which appears to be the only aftermarket addition.

Studebaker joined a long list of automobile manufacturers to disappear into the pages of history when the last car rolled off the line on March 17th, 1966. It was a minnow that was unable to combat the might of The Big Three, despite bringing interesting and sometimes innovative cars to the market. The seller listed this 1958 Silver Hawk here on eBay in Palmetto, Georgia. Bidding has surpassed the reserve, sitting at $12,600 at the time of writing. It will probably climb higher, but I would be surprised if it ventures beyond $15,000. The seller describes this Studebaker as fun to drive and isn’t that what classic car ownership should be all about? That is why it deserves a closer look.