Struggling Studebaker managed to hang on by introducing a new compact in 1959 called the Lark. Using a modified full-size platform, the little car saved Studebaker’s bacon until the rest of the U.S. car industry got into the compact car game. By 1964, the car had been significantly restyled and was perhaps the best-looking iteration to-date. The seller has a ’64 Daytona 4-door sedan with a V8 engine that came out of an estate. It’s been sitting for years and doesn’t run, but it looks good overall. Located with a reseller in Tampa, Florida, this old Stude is available here on eBay, where the current bid is $1,925 (no reserve).
The Daytona edition of the Lark debuted in 1962 as a sporty version of the little car. By 1964, it was the top-of-the-line model as Studebaker moved away from the Lark nameplate. In an effort to stay afloat, Studebaker ceased U.S. auto production in late 1963, focusing all its work in Hamilton, Ontario. The Avanti and Gran Turismo Hawk were discontinued, but the Lark/Daytona would soldier on into 1966 before the company threw in the towel.
A VIN plate on the seller’s car says it was made in the USA; therefore, it was one of the last 1964 cars to be built in South Bend, Indiana (before December 1963). It has a V8 engine, which could be either a 259 or 289 cubic inch version. Its owner passed away after letting the car sit for a time, and the keys could not be located. We’re told the auto doesn’t run, but is that because of dormancy or something else? One of the photos shows no radiator cap, so it may be bone dry.
While there is crust on the frame, the sheet metal appears rust-free, and the paint shines up well. The car is unrestored, so everything, including the red interior, could be as it was built nearly 63 years ago. It’s a complete roller for the time being, but if you can sort out its possible mechanical woes, this could be a great survivor to have found life once more. And, with no reserve, maybe a bargain has been found.
Here’s a tear jerker for ya’, I’m not sure the site is a good thing or torture, sometimes. This ad embodies everything I vorch about, “owner passed away, no keys( maybe took them with him, nobody gonna drive my car, dagnabit), current owners know nothing”, I can’t express my despair, and IT’S AN AUTOMATIC!!! See, the thing with these, today, it has to 100% ready to go. Too many variables for the common classic car buyer. They have no loyalty to the brand, and will move on to the next car that is ready, doesn’t matter what it is. Now us that know about Studebakers, all 17 of us, would jump on this car in a second, it never would have made it to CL in the 1st place. Not anymore, and that is almost worth crying about,,,
Sad…and it’s happening more every day in all parts of the country…now, let’s see if I can find some room..