Observation begs question: Why more First Gen Larks are street rodded

[drpreposterous]

Just a perception, really, But I seem to see conspicuously more first gen Larks for sale that are rodded than the later ones. Is it true? If it is true, is there something about first gens that makes them easier to modify?

[r1lark]

My humble opinion is that the first generation Larks, with their short overhangs front and rear, make a meaner looking hot rod when modified. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the '62 thru '66 Lark-types (and have four of them). But look at the picture you posted - the longer overhang later Larks just wouldn't have the same "look".

[StudeRich]

There were MORE 1959 Larks built and Sold than any year except 1950? Also a very good Number of 1960's.

They are very "Cute" and Light Compacts with a V8 option.

They are Good for a bit of Good HP to weight Ratio.

Their popularity at Drag Strips & even a few Race Tracks helped with "Performance Recognition".

[SScopelli]

There were MORE 1959 Larks built and Sold than any year except 1950? Also a very good Number of 1960's.

They are very "Cute" and Light Compacts with a V8 option.

They are Good for a bit of Good HP to weight Ratio.

Their popularity at Drag Strips & even a few Race Tracks helped with "Performance Recognition".

Forgot:

Super easy to drop a Chevy engine in one.

Relatively low cost to get into (Opposed to a Chevy II)

No one will complain hacking up a Lark to make a Street/Strip machine

[thunderations]

Ran out of Willy's and Henry J's.
Always thought that putting the front fender opening into the rear quarter panel would have looked good and made clearance for the big tires.

[Swifster]

As Rich mentioned, there are far more '59 and '60 Larks than other years...

[62champ]

They just look good - and they are cheap/plentiful - and they look good.

[T.J lavallee]

When rodded they have that stubby bulldog, aggressive look. They look mean. I like it!

[8E45E]

Forgot:

Super easy to drop a Chevy engine in one.

Relatively low cost to get into (Opposed to a Chevy II)

And unlike Chevy II, Larks have a SOLID FRAME where one can actually weld engine mounts and suspension components to if they don't think a Studebaker engine or stock suspension is 'good enough' for them.

Craig

[JRoberts]

I agree with most of what has been said. The first gen Larks are light weight and good looking cars.

[Scott]

I think you forgot the mention THEY LOOK GOOD!!

They just look good - and they are cheap/plentiful - and they look good.

[swvalcon]

62 champ Great looking car.

[KEN IN TEXAS]

I want a 59 or 60 2dr post or Hard Top. My first new car at age 20 was a killer 60 Lark Regal Hardtop VIII, 3 on the tree, with OD. 4bbl, dual exhaust. TT. stock It would jump out of the hole while Chevies went up in smoke. Oasis Green with a tan interior.
Picture this 60 HT with full moon disks and short lakes pipes. 800 15 rears and traction bars

www.happycarz.com/showroom/1960-studebaker-lark-regal-nicely-restored

[lumpy]

Small, light , cute, full frame , most people dont know what the heck it is Thats what made me buy one...Also the $1400 price tag didn't hurt!

[JRoberts]

How could you not fall in love with this hardtop? It is a prime example of the first generation Larks. My, first Studebaker was a '59 hardtop, never looked as good as this one.