In 1958 and 1959, American Motors and Studebaker introduced new compact cars that led to a revolution with the Detroit “Big 3” in the 1960s. The new Lark is just what the doctor ordered for struggling Studebaker, but in 1960, all kinds of competition arrived. This 1960 Lark is a Deluxe VIII model, meaning it came with a V8 instead of an inline-6. This wagon is original and runs great, but is worn cosmetically. Located in Durango, Colorado, this survivor is available here on craigslist for $12,500. And it’s another tip from Mike F.!
AMC and Studebaker saw improved overall sales in 1958 and 1959 (respectively) thanks to the Lark and American compacts. But the celebrations probably waned in 1960 with the arrival of the Chevy Corvair, Ford Falcon, and Plymouth Valiant – and others weren’t far behind. Both cars used their respective companies’ parts bins because they did not have deep pockets. After being new in 1959, the small Studebaker didn’t change much for 1960.
While Studebaker sold 122,000 cars in 1960 across all models, just 5,700 were V8-powered 4-door wagons in Deluxe trim like this one. Besides housing its factory 259 cubic inch motor, this wagon has a “3-on-the-tree” manual transmission with working overdrive. A solid runner, this Lark has 105,000 miles under its belt. This use is supported by the ample use of duct tape on the front seats. The frills were few, as this example didn’t even come with a radio.
The body here sports a few little dents and dings, and the factory paint is beyond its prime. But rust does not seem to be an issue, at least it is not referenced by the seller. If you like the appearance of 65-year-old cars that haven’t been restored, this wagon should be fun as-is. Or you could treat it as the extreme makeover the vehicle no doubt deserves. Okay, Studebaker fans, what would be your play?
I’d love to see this one restored. The 259 V8 and the 3 speed stick are a nice surprise, I was expecting a 6. Looks like a great car to restore.
The six would have been the flathead in its last year, very slow.
Rough for the asking price. There are a lot of other cars with as strong or stronger following for less money. Budget shoppers will likely keep looking for a car that provides better value, that’s what I’d do.
Steve R
man, that front seat really kills this car. 12k price they really should address that situation
This listing makes me want to go on vacation!
When I was a very young boy, growing up in southwestern Pennsylvania, my dad (a Studebaker salesman working for my grandfather, the local Studebaker dealer) would buy a used Lark wagon every summer, get my brothers, my sister, and me up in the middle of the night, and he’d take us to Ocean City, NJ for vacation, then sell the Lark when we got home to offset the cost of the vacation. I spent many hours NOT sleeping in the back of those wagons — much to my parents’ chagrin — as we traveled the Pennsylvania Turnpike on our way to the Jersey shore.
In AZ since 92′ but from S.Jersey,flew home last year and spent a week in Ocean City.
Eight or nine photos on Craigslist (more than usual), but none of V-8 engine compartment. Of course, to us, that would be of much interest. I did laugh at the author’s “ample use of duct tape” comment. Even with wagons selling well in recent years, I think the owner should accept an offer of a few thousand less.
I enjoyed the Duct Tape reference as well- but I can beat it. Years ago I went with a friend to look at a ‘59 VW Bug. The ad read “rebuilt engine, new interior, new paint“. The seats had been completely wrapped in duct tape. “New interior”
Asked when the engine had been rebuilt; 1960 (15 years prior).
Rattle canned flat black: New paint.
Amazingly, he decided against it. 🤷♂️
Bunky, I don’t know if I can beat your comment, but I DID own a ’59 VW Bug back around 1973. It did have half decent black paint, and I DID rebuild the 36 HP engine using JC Whitney parts: centrifugal advance Bosch distributor, heavy duty oil cooler, new cylinders and pistons, headers and muffler. It had been a hippy car with previous owner starry night headliner. It ran very well in N CA down the dirt roads to a ranch in Mendocino County. No duct tape that I can remember though!
Found an all-original red 2-door Lark VIII wagon from the original 89yo owner from Palos Verdes Ca, back in the early-90s for $600/ Like a fool I flipped it and have never found another one as nice.
“Show us your LARK!” … was an ad campaign for a cigarette of the same name… (… and that was weird back then!)
This wagon is very intriguing (although the price is dissuasive). And too bad it got hit in the rear quarter. It is the “Deluxe” version as opposed to the “Regal” version which has chrome trim around grille and headlights. The $110 Dollar overdrive and $35 Dollar limited slip differential “Twin-Traction” are very nice touches (Check out the intertwined “TT” logo on the rear hatch). J.D. Power suggests a low-retail value of $21,900 Dollars for, quote, “A vehicle that needs minor reconditioning. Mechanically in working order and with exterior paint/trim and interior showing normal wear.”
I love it! Cool car at a price is an asking price. I’m betting the owner could be talked down. V8, 3 speed AND overdrive. What’s not to like. A few thousand and this could be really nice. Since AM radio is a gamble at best in the western states, the
non-existant original radio is no great loss. A current sound system would be in order. As would be a aftermarket A/C system. Too bad I’m not currently in the market.
Wow! Where have I been? J.D. Power lists vehicle values now?
John Power stopped in on my boss and I back in about 1976 on his way to California from Michigan (old job as editor of Autoweek) To start his new company J.D. Power and Assoc. Providing quality reports to manufacturers. I didn’t see how he was going to make a living doing that. Shows what I know! ( actually didn’t know!)