This is a car you simply don’t come across all too often out in the wild, a rare, and very unique first-generation 1961 Studebaker Lark VIII Convertible, finished in a color believed to be known as ‘Flamingo Pink’, this example shown here is truly in immaculate condition inside and out! The Lark model is a compact car which was produced by American wagon and automobile manufacturer, Studebaker from 1959 until 1966 across numerous different generations and variations. Two major series of the Lark model were made available, the VIII, and the VI, which indicated whether or not the car was equipped with either an 8 or 6-cylinder engine. Both the VIII and the VI were available in either ‘Regal’ or ‘Deluxe’ trim levels, and being that this car shown here is a 1961 model, it’s considered to be part of the first-generation of vehicles produced, which took place from 1959 until 1961. For the 1960 model year, the company officially introduced the convertible variant of the Lark VIII, which was actually Studebaker’s first since 1952. The 1961 model year in particular came with numerous cosmetic and mechanical enhancements over previous model years, which included, but was not limited to new cowl ventilation, a revamped steering system, a more powerful engine, and much more. Despite all of the mechanical improvements, the 1961 model year sold only a reported 1,002 total examples of the Lark VIII convertible, making this car not only just beautiful to look at, but also incredibly hard to come by, especially in the same condition as the car shown here. Production numbers become even more scarce when considering options, such as rare paint colors, and other unique add-ons that certain customers opted for over others.
How many made? 1,002 in 1961
Engine: 289 cubic inch (4.7L) V8
Debut: 1960 Chicago Auto Show,
Top Speed: around 100mph
0-60mph: around 9-10 seconds
Photo Credit: @am_media_ny
Research: @rarecarsonly
1961 Studebaker Lark VIII Convertible
24.10.2024
Studebaker