The Studebaker Lark was one of the new compact cars to hit the U.S. market in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Along with the Rambler American, it debuted in 1959 – a full year before the Detroit “Big 3” would get into the game. So, the Lark had an early sales advantage that helped the financially troubled company for a while. This 1960 Lark is the Regal VIII edition, meaning it’s a V8 with a higher trim level. It’s been sitting in the seller’s husband’s garage, perhaps for years, and the engine is likely frozen.
Because Studebaker-Packard’s pockets weren’t deep, the Lark was not an all-new car. They took the existing Studebaker platform, shortened the wheelbase, and cut off sheet metal on both ends to produce a smaller car that could still hold a family of six. The Lark VI came with an inline-6 engine while the Lark VIII had a 259 cubic-inch V8 (like the one here). The cars were offered in Deluxe and Regal trim except for the convertible, which only came as a Regal. The Lark VIII was a peppy car and could run up to 60 mph in about 10 seconds.
The seller’s car is one of 5,500 built with a V8 (plus 3,100 more with the I-6). So, a Lark convertible was not a common sight in 1960 and is practically invisible today. We assume this Studebaker began as a mild project several years ago but has been sitting long enough for things to stop working. That includes the engine, which the seller thinks is locked up.
This Lark appears to be fairly solid though some of the chrome bits are missing (but could be somewhere in the garage). The convertible top has given up doing its job, which means the interior may have been invaded by furry creatures over time. This might be a fun restoration project and you can find the Stude in South Rockwood, Michigan. It’s available here on Facebook Marketplace for $2,500. Thanks for the tip, Barn Finder, “Ted”!
I often compare Rambler with Studebaker, we in Milwaukenosha had a kindred following, both independents, both from smaller Midwest cities, and had a similar customer base. Being from an area that predominantly has poor weather, convertibles were not a big draw. The only ones sold, if any, went to nicer climates. Seeing this is like seeing a Rambler Classic convertible, something you just didn’t see. While the convertible wasn’t a big seller, it should be noted looking at the figures, they did sell 120,000 cars in 1960, and as a regional make, I bet most never left Indiana. Priced around $2400, it was comparable to the fanciest Rambler, typically the convertible is the 2nd most expensive model, following the wagons. Quite a find for a Studebaker nut, if any left, otherwise, again, slim chance anyone would take this on today.
This one should easily find a home… plenty of Studebaker people left, and a huge Studerbaker parts and support network is in place.. the 259 is the icing on the cake- a strong and solidly designed engine.
If the underside is solid, this would be a fantastic project. Build up a Studebaker 289 to Avanti R1 spec, add a modern 5-speed transmission and some Avanti wheel covers, and it would be sort of what a Daytona would have been like in 1960. The styling is SO midcentury perfect that it’s worth saving.
This Lark must be the only V8 convertible in existence. Back in its day there were very few rag tops and very few V8’s as said in the distribution.
If it isn’t rusted at the frame it is worth saving. Fix that engine,don’t replace it. This car is only good if it is restored to its original state. Other wise it is not worth the money to fix it.
The Rambler American was first offered for the 1958 model year, one year ahead of the Studebaker Lark.
OMG… call the crusher!
College friend had one, bought in Texas in spring of 1960, it was a “special order” with A/C, factory gave him (or his father) grief since “who wants a convertible with A/C?” “We do.” There was no mechanical reason not to build it and money talks, so it was done. It was a fast, comfortable, car.