Image of 1959 Studebaker Lark, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

1959 Studebaker Lark: A Compact Pioneer with a Big Legacy

The 1959 Studebaker Lark arrived on the automotive scene with a splash, marking a significant shift in American car design towards compact efficiency. Born from the venerable Studebaker Corporation, which had been manufacturing vehicles since the late 19th century, the Lark was a bold attempt to keep the company relevant in an era dominated by larger-than-life automobiles. Its historical significance lies in its role as one of the first American compact cars that paved the way for others in its class. A particularly intriguing fact about the Lark is that it was designed on a shoestring budget, using many parts from previous models, yet it managed to carve out a new niche in the market.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1959 Studebaker Lark exuded charm with its clean lines and uncluttered profile. It was a departure from the flamboyant fins and chrome of its contemporaries, showcasing a more practical and understated aesthetic. Inside, the Lark offered a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, with quality materials that belied its budget-friendly nature. Technological features were modest but included innovations like front anti-roll bars and an available overdrive transmission. Color options ranged from quaint pastels to more traditional hues, with Parchment White and Velvet Black being among the popular choices. The Lark came in several body styles including two- and four-door sedans, a two-door hardtop, a convertible, and even a station wagon, with the two-door hardtop often celebrated for its sporty appeal.

Historical Significance

The Studebaker Lark's impact on automotive design was profound. It demonstrated that there was a market for smaller, more economical cars in America—a trend that would only grow in importance in subsequent decades. The Lark stood out for its practicality and affordability during an era when excess often ruled the road. Its success also inspired other manufacturers to explore compact models, shaping industry strategies for years to come.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1959 Studebaker Lark was respectable for its class. Equipped with either an inline-six or V8 engine, it could achieve top speeds that were competitive at the time. The 0-60 mph figures were not record-breaking but were adequate for everyday driving needs. Handling was one of its strong suits; drivers appreciated its nimbleness on city streets and its stability on highways. The ride quality struck a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making it both a reliable commuter and an enjoyable weekend cruiser.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1959 Studebaker Lark used their vehicles in various ways—from daily driving to attending classic car shows. Its reliability was commendable given proper maintenance, though some parts could be challenging to source due to Studebaker's eventual closure. However, clubs and enthusiast networks have helped keep many Larks on the road through shared resources and expertise.

Fun Facts

The Lark has its share of fun trivia; for example, it was once featured in an international Cold War diplomatic incident when Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev took a ride in one during his visit to the United States. While no speed or sales records were set by the Lark itself, it did achieve significant sales figures that helped keep Studebaker operational for several more years. Criticisms of the car often focused on its conservative styling and modest power compared to flashier competitors.

Collector's Information

Today, values for well-maintained 1959 Studebaker Larks can vary widely based on condition, rarity of body style, and originality. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands were produced across all body styles during their initial run. As collectibles, they are more accessible than some other classics but have been appreciating steadily as interest in compact vintage cars grows. A well-preserved or fully restored Lark could fetch anywhere from $10,000 to over $30,000 depending on various factors.

Conclusion

The 1959 Studebaker Lark stands as an important chapter in American automotive history—a testament to innovation under pressure and foresight into market trends. Its legacy is reflected not only in its own success but also in how it influenced future generations of compact cars. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, owning a Lark is both a nod to practicality and a celebration of classic Americana.

1959 Studebaker Lark Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 45Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1959 Studebaker Lark Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair-BN 107Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair

1959 Studebaker Lark Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high-BN 13Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high., with 3/8" I.D. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D-GF 45Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D., 3-7/16" O.D. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair-HR 16Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair

1959 Studebaker Lark Mirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-B, check dimensions-MP 965-AMirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-B, check dimensions. 1" wide X 7" long. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Mirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-A, check dimensions-MP 965-BMirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-A, check dimensions. 1-1/8" wide X 6-3/4" long. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Rubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights-MP 979-CRubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights. 8-7/8" wide X 10" long. Pair

1959 Studebaker Lark Steering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each-SC 24-ASteering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Headlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D-SM 13-AHeadlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each

1959 Studebaker Lark Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1959 Studebaker Lark Front Vent Window Seals-WR 9404Front Vent Window Seals. Will not fit Hardtops, only Pillar Models. Each piece 29" long. Pair