1960 was the second to last year for the Studebaker Hawk line. When the 1960 model year began, U.S. automakers were in the middle of a steel strike, and the shortage of steel hit Studebaker, which was a much smaller company than AMC or the Big Three, particularly hard.Studebaker had a proven sales winner in the 1959 Lark, which was continued into 1960 with little change. With steel in short supply, the company chose to focus on building as many Larks as possible to ensure an adequate supply for the company's dealers. This meant that Silver Hawk production for 1960, which had been scheduled to begin in November or December 1959, was delayed.Unfortunately for Studebaker-but fortunately for Hawk buyers-sales of the Lark began to fall off in the closing months of 1959. By the beginning of February 1960, Hawks finally began to roll from the South Bend assembly line.It isn't known what might have happened had Lark sales continued at their 1959 levels, but speculation has been advanced that the company might not have produced any Hawks. The lengthy delay between new-model announcement time and the start of Hawk production in 1960 shows just how close Studebaker came to not producing a model that they had at least halfheartedly promoted in print advertising and showroom brochures.Fortunately, though, the Hawk lived on, and later that year a stock production model won its class in the 1960 Mobil Economy Run, delivering 22.9 miles per gallon. Which even by today's standards, is very good. This particular 1960 Hawk has undergone a complete restoration in the past few years to make it what you see today. There has been new paint applied to the already solid body which looks great. There are no major imperfections to the body or paint. Just a few minor scratches hear and there. Both front and rear bumpers appear to be the originals for the car and do show some pitting and scratches. All the trim and bright work on the car looks very good with only minor pitting. Inside, the red vinyl seats are both in great condition and show no rips or major wear. The carpet, headliner, door panels and padded dash are all finished in a red vinyl that looks great. Carpet is new as well with no major signs of wear. Under the hood, the 259 Cu In V8 runs great and starts with a turn of the key. While not highly detailed, the motor is very clean and presentable. With power steering and power brakes, the car is a joy to drive. Plenty of power and it goes down the road straight with no pulling to either side under braking. The torque thrust wheels are wrapped with newer radials that all have good tread life left on them. This is another great classic from South Bend that would make a great driver or a show piece. The current mileage on the car shows 2,309 and it is being sold on a clean, mileage exempt Iowa title where it has been since January of 2003.