The DFW Car & Toy Museum has expanded its Ron Sturgeon Collection with the acquisition of a 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk, a vehicle that exemplifies the bold American design of the mid-century era while incorporating thoughtful modern enhancements. This coupe, refurbished in the late 1990s, serves as a beautifully maintained tribute to one of Studebaker's most visually striking creations, appealing to both classic car enthusiasts and hot rod aficionados.
Under the hood, the Silver Hawk features several tasteful performance upgrades that enhance its driving experience. These include an Edelbrock carburetor, an aftermarket intake manifold, an auxiliary electric cooling fan, and a PerTronix electronic ignition system. For added comfort and entertainment, the car is equipped with aftermarket air conditioning and a Custom AutoSound radio paired with modern speakers, making it suitable for contemporary cruising. The vehicle retains its original rear-wheel-drive configuration and a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission with overdrive, offering a hands-on driving experience that connects drivers to automotive history.
Suspension and braking systems maintain a balance between classic engineering and reliability. The front suspension utilizes double-action shock absorbers with variable-rate springs, while the rear employs traditional leaf springs. Braking is handled by drums at all four corners, complemented by power-assisted steering that provides a smoother ride without sacrificing road feel. Inside, the vintage aesthetic is preserved with a bright horn-ring steering wheel, a machine-turned dash panel, and a 120-mph speedometer flanked by auxiliary gauges. A Sunpro tachometer has been added below the dash, seamlessly blending with the period styling. The five-digit odometer reads 42,000 miles, believed to have rolled over, indicating the car's well-preserved condition.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the car's dual appeal, stating it represents "the best of both worlds—classic Americana with thoughtful upgrades that make it a joy to drive and admire." He noted that the Silver Hawk attracts attention for its style while impressing with its substance, highlighting its significance in the museum's collection. The vehicle is now on display as part of the museum's rotating exhibit, which features over 200 vehicles and 3,000 collectibles, ensuring visitors encounter new additions regularly. The museum continues to refresh its offerings throughout the year, providing a dynamic experience for automotive enthusiasts. For more information on the museum's exhibits and hours, visitors can refer to its official website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
This acquisition underscores the museum's role in preserving Texas's automotive heritage while driving economic impact through tourism and cultural engagement. By showcasing vehicles like the Studebaker Silver Hawk, the museum not only educates the public about mid-century American design but also supports local businesses through increased visitor traffic. The blend of classic aesthetics with modern enhancements reflects a broader trend in Texas's automotive industry, where innovation meets tradition to create sustainable attractions. For collectors and enthusiasts, such additions highlight the state's growing prominence as a hub for automotive history, potentially inspiring further investments in preservation and restoration sectors. The museum's rotating exhibits ensure ongoing relevance, making it a key player in Texas's cultural and economic landscape, as detailed on its website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
