Studebaker Lark
Studebaker's Lark was a clever compact that offered mid-size room and optional V8 power, giving the company a brief sales success. It's an underdog classic that ultimately couldn't hold off the Big Three's competing models.
Studebaker Lark sold for a median of $17,750 over the last 12 months, based on 18 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $6,450 and $21,000. 31 currently for sale.
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Studebaker Lark prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1959 | $13k | $6.2k–$18k | 6 | 3 |
| 1960 | $21k | $9.2k–$24k | 8 | 8 |
| 1961 | $23k | – | 3 | 3 |
| 1962 | $6.4k | $5.2k–$12k | 7 | 3 |
| 1963 | $7.5k | $5.4k–$16k | 6 | 8 |
| 1964 | $18k | $15k–$22k | 4 | 4 |
| 1965 | $18k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1966 | $15k | – | 1 | 1 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Studebaker Lark was a last-ditch effort by the company to stay solvent, created by shortening the full-size 1958 chassis. Launched in 1959, it was an immediate sales success, offering compact dimensions with the interior space of a mid-size car and the option of V8 power. This initial success was short-lived as the Big Three introduced their own compacts, but the Lark soldiered on with various updates until Studebaker's demise.
Collectors are drawn to the Lark's underdog story and its unique place in automotive history. Convertibles, 2-door hardtops, and the innovative Wagonaire station wagon with its sliding rear roof are particularly desirable. The availability of Studebaker's 259 and 289 V8s, and even the supercharged R2 V8 from the Avanti in later models, makes for a surprisingly quick classic car that stands out from the usual crowd.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Thoroughly inspect the frame, especially around the rear suspension, as well as the floor pans, trunk floor, and lower body panels.
- Engine choice matters. The base 6-cylinder is adequate, but the 259 and 289 V8s offer a much more enjoyable driving experience. Rare supercharged R-series engines command a significant premium.
- Wagonaire models feature a unique sliding roof section. Check its operation and look for signs of water leaks, as seals can be difficult to source and replace correctly.
- While mechanical parts are reasonably available through specialist clubs, unique trim, glass, and body panels can be very difficult to find. Prioritize a complete car.
311 Studebaker Lark vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 31 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Studebaker Lark cost?
Over the last 12 months, Studebaker Lark sold for a median of $17,750 across 18 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $6,450 and $21,000. There are 31 currently for sale.
How many Studebaker Lark listings are for sale right now?
There are 31 Studebaker Lark listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.