By 1965, Studebaker Corp. was treading on very thin ice. U.S. production was canceled in 1964 and left Studebaker of Canada to soldier on. The number of models offered had been slashed (no more Gran Turismo or Avani products). And sales continued to slip away. The seller’s car is likely a 1965 Commander as the Lark name had been phased out and this vehicle probably doesn’t run. Located in the woods in Greenfield, Ohio, this vintage Stude has been available for some time here on Facebook Marketplace for $1,200. Thanks for another vintage tip, “Ted”!
When 1964 production wound down in the U.S., so did the supply of Studebaker engines (which had been made in South Bend, Indiana). The company contracted with GM/Chevrolet for V8s and inline-6 powerplants. The latter is said to be in the seller’s project machine, thus displacing 230 cubic inches with a single barrel carburetor and a “3-on-the-tree” (Borg Warner?) manual transmission.
The seller’s car may be one of just 4,300 or so Commander 4-door sedans to be built in 1964. So, it was rare when new, and rarer now. But rare doesn’t necessarily translate into valuable. While the seller says the body is in fair shape, we’re told the interior is a mess but no photos of it or the engine compartment are provided. A car like this is only going to appeal to a Studebaker follower, so a better description and pics may have already moved this car into the “sold” column.
I have a 1965 Studie Commander 2-door I’m selling.
Send it in so we can auction it for you!
Would have had a 194 CID engine. The 230 became a option in 66.
He must not be really enthused about selling this Lark. Only 2 partial photos. None of the interior, right rear side of the car or engine.
Russ, when South Bend production ceased in Dec. ’63, the engine plant continued to produce Studebaker engines for the remainder of the 1964 model year in Hamilton.