1960 Studebaker Lark 8: History, Features, and Classic Car Review

In this 130th Video from Classic Car ChitChat, you will get a chance to see a beautiful 1960 Studebaker Lark 8!
In this video, join us as we step back in time to explore the incredible world of the 1960 Studebaker Lark 8, a classic car with a story to tell. In this video, we're unveiling five captivating facts that make this car truly extraordinary:
Compact Car Revolution: Discover how the 1960 Studebaker Lark 8 was a game-changer in the automotive world, leading the way in the compact car segment with its innovative design and size.
Jet Thrust Power: We'll take you under the hood to reveal the remarkable 'Jet Thrust' V8 engine, a Studebaker hallmark known for its performance and efficiency.
Avanti Influence: Learn how the iconic Avanti design and innovations influenced the Studebaker Lark, contributing to its unique and stylish appearance.
Champion of Fuel Efficiency: At a time when gas mileage was becoming increasingly important, the Lark 8 stood out as a fuel-efficient option. Discover the details of its economical performance.
Racing Legacy: Uncover the surprising racing legacy of the Studebaker Lark 8, with victories on the tracks that demonstrate its prowess beyond everyday driving.
Whether you're a classic car enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone intrigued by the allure of vintage automobiles, this video is a must-watch.
If you found these facts as captivating as we do and want more automotive insights, don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button and give us a thumbs up!
#StudebakerLark8 #ClassicCars #AutomotiveHistory"
In case you are keeping Track this is Video # 130 of Classic Car ChitChat Videos!
I hope my Classic Car ChitChat videos make you smile. I do them in my spare time because I truly love cars and my intentions are simply to honour the beautiful cars I get to see and to really understand the passion and love of the vehicle by the driver (or caretaker as Jay Leno would say) of the car. I also understand too that my videos perhaps lack the polish calibre of great KZbinrs like: Doug DeMuro, Scotty Kilmer, and of course my favourite Supercar Blondie. I also know that I can’t even come close the quality & finish you get from the likes of Jeremy Clarkson and the boys at Top Gear. I think they use a little fancier equipment than my little iPhone… LOL
Mission Statement:
My Objective through creating these videos is to shine the spotlight on people who love their vehicles whether it be a car, motorcycle, or even a bicycle…. Bottom line is if it has wheels and you love it then let’s show that passion to the world!
Equipment Used:
Camera
- Just an iPhone SE (Nothing fancy - which proves anyone can use whatever you have handy to make a video… you don’t need really expensive equipment)
- I also use Insta 360X2 which is perhaps one of the best investments I have made and allows me to capture some really cool 360 degree views and also creates a “drone like” effect with the invisible selfie stick attachment.
Gimbal - DJI OM4 - For that ultra-smooth cinematic look. (To be honest... still not quite sure how to use it but one day I will figure it out!)
Audio - Rode Wireless GO II (I gotta be honest… this is really the biggest investment that was made… I wish there was a cheaper option but after the first couple of videos I soon realized that audio quality is important and hopefully better than the onboard mic on the iPhone!
Contact Details: If you have any questions or just want to chat you can reach me through all the (non-traditional) typical ways through the following:
Facebook - / classiccarchitchat
Instagram - / classiccarchitchat
Email - [e-mail]
If you have read this far, then I thank you. As always, I truly appreciate your “thumbs-up”, and by leaving your comments it demonstrates to me that I managed to get you involved and hopefully made you smile. Most importantly when you subscribe to my channel then you are truly acknowledging my effort to help share with others like you my passion and love for “all things that have wheels” and honouring the people who take care of them.
Thank You
Kevin
ADDITIONAL
Audio Soundtracks Used In this Video Sourced From:
Vertigeux - / @vertigeux
"Classic Car Cruisin" - By Vertigeux

[@neildickson5394]

I've never heard of Mercedes Benz objecting to the Lark grill, but it wouldn't surprise me. They thought they owned the world. It was they who objected to the planned 1959 revival of the grand lux Packard based upon the French Facel Vega Excellence body. To keep things running smooth Studebaker relented and didn't pursue the revival. MB knew they couldn't compete with their outdated 300. They partnered with Studebaker Packard to access their thousands of dealers. Many Mercedes dealers today still trace their roots back to being Studebaker Packard dealers. The Lark grill became even more Mercedes like in 62-63. That hood ornament looks very much like the 56 Packard hood ornament.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Neil, thank you for that incredible insight to an amazing car maker. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@Irishfan]

Personally, I think Mercedes copied Studebaker in the grill design of more recent Mercedes models. Back in the day, I never heard of Mercedes objecting to Studebaker grill. The two models shown in the video look nothing alike.

[@giorkaro8971]

Beautiful vehicle! My dream is having a garage like Roy's!

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Giorgio, me too. It's amazing, he has so many unique and rare things in there.

[@jamesshilton597]

I am always blown away with the Studebaker cars just having that little extra compared to so many other cars from the same Era.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

So true James

[@kaitoriyama1981]

Really cool car and great video. Luv this guy's garage.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@rickloera9468]

The Avanti was a completely different car. Totally different audience. The Lark was sold at the same time as the Avanti. You keep referencing the Avanti as if it replacd the Lark, and it was this huge change. That is not the case with the Lark. The Larks competition was the Rambler American, Falcon, Valiant, Corvair etc.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Rick, thank you for that great insight into the Lark. I will share with Roy too. I can see how the Lark would compete (and win in many areas) against the competition. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@steveriley1178]

A true classic gem and incredible condition too.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Certainly is Steve

[@davidzdziarek-zl8cu]

Lark offered a V8 that neither Falcon nor Valiant offered. If you didn't want a Lark, but wanted a small car with the prowess of an eight, your only hope was Ambassador.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

David, you certainly know the Studebaker cars. Thank you for sharing. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@johnhorchler1953]

This is just like the first car I brought home in 1967 when I turned 16 ($500). My Dad threw a fit because it was a Studebaker and already out of business. He said I would have a hard time getting replacement parts when needed. I wonder how much this car would cost to buy today? 🏁

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

John, the Lark is truly a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It was my first ever opportunity to see it up close and I was amazed as to how far ahead of their time Studebaker truly was. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@jimstrict-998]

My Dad was mad when I bought my first car, a rough 1970 Chevelle SS 396. He changed his attitude after lots of guys knocked on our door wanting to buy it.

[@davidzdziarek-zl8cu]

A junior first gen Valiant Barracuda roofline!

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

David, thanks for sharing.

[@Irishfan]

The Studebaker Rockne model was named after the Head Football Coach of the University Notre Dame, the School and Studebaker were both located in South Bend, Indiana. The story the owner told regarding Mercedes Benz objecting to the grill design i think is an urban legend. I am sure it is not true.i never heard that until very recently. The Studebaker grill and the Mercedes grill shown on the 59 Mercedes in the video look nothing alike. The only thing is at a time when most auto manufacturers were designing grills across the entire front of the car, Mercedes was making theirs like an old fashon radiator in front between the headlights. Rolls Roice did the same as did a few other manufacturers. If you really look through the years at Mercedes Benz designs and start comparing them, it looks like the more modern models in recent decades. It would appear that Mercedes was insired by the Studebaker grill design. To me, it looks like Mercedes took the Lark grill design and tweaked it for their more recent cars. The Lark design was a tweaking of Studebaker's design of the Hawk, another model Studebaker produced from the mid-50s until the end.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Irishman… cool name. Thanks for sharing such great insight. I will be sure to let Roy know too. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@eeblatter]

Great to see. I had a '60 Lark 8 convertible and it was a wonderful car. I also had Gran Turismo Hawks. My parents bought a Mercedes 190 SL and a Gran Turismo Hawk from the same dealer at the same time. Even had sequential license plates.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Wow.. that is something and I would agree that the Larks and Hawks are beautiful cars. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@Angrybarberman]

I had a 65 cruiser with the chevy 6, the 3 on the tree was a problem as it was all worn out . One night my father in laws drunken buddy followed him home, and the wife wouldnt let him sleep in their house, so he found my cruiser unlocked and proceeded to vacate his bodily waste, vomit, urine, and feces in his sleep...like on Seinfeld, the odor was not removeable. I wound up having to get rid of it. Hopefully, someday, when i retire, another canadian 64 or 65 will come along with the 6, ...and an automatic...

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Dave.. that would be a beast of a car for sure. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@frankename1984]

The little details on this car are just fabulous.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Certainly are

[@williamfawkes8379]

Anyone interested in more of the story of the Lark and Mercedes, there is much to be found online. Studebaker actually paid for Mercedes to do design work for them, even though they were facing an uphill battle with the big 3 American companies, and the Lark became a briefly standout small car that beat the others to market. It was a landmark design in America, and was quickly lost in the shuffle of new smaller cars available in the 60s.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

William, thanks again for sharing such great insight into this fabulous car. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@omarhanraman9133]

Another example of Studebaker just being well ahead of its time.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

So true

[@juliafinch359]

This car is lovely and reminds me of my uncle Jim's car which was the Lark too but it was a station wagon in brown color. This video brought back so many memories for me so thank you for helping me relive some fond memories.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Thanks for sharing

[@Jeff_Brown659]

The Lark was the car I was not really familiar with but it really is a beast of a car. Very knowledgeable man.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

So true. Roy is extraordinary.

[@davejohnson2814]

Wonderful car with great innovation ahead of the pack.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

We agree!

[@Deleteduser666]

From Montreal saw a 61 automatic in blue on marketplace but I missed the opportunity to buy it

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Fluffyboi (great name) I bet too when you see this car you kick yourself for missing that opportunity even more. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@Deleteduser666]

@ClassicCarChitChat you are doing a great thing documenting these cars. As for the for the name, I couldn't think of a different one at the time 😅 and ya will still keep my eyes open for one

[@frank9963]

my dream car would be a lark station wagon with a v8 and disc brakes

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Frank, the Lark is truly an extraordinary car in so many Amy’s. I can see it would be your dream car. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@robpage7125]

My dad taught me to drive Lark with a 3-speed stick shift !

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Rob, I bet you still think about the Lark 😊. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@enzoheath9081]

I am 13 am very lucky to have a 1960 studebaker lark viii station wagon runs and drives body dreamt condition engine not so much I love to see other studebakers

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Enzo, wow you are lucky. If you get a chance check out the video I made of Roy’s Studebaker collection and his man cave. The title of the video is “ ultimate Man Cave - including rare collector cars”. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos and subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. As you may have seen in my videos that my intention is to showcase not only the beautiful car and really give the owner of the car (the caretaker as Jay Leno rightly says) the opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@robpage7125]

Thanks Enzo, for a wonderful presentation about the Lark..! Although I am 73..I hope to own one before I'm called to glory . 😅

[@frank9963]

some larks came with just a really slow flat four

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

I bet they are a real collector car now too.

[@frank9963]

they had disc brakes available as an option

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Well ahead of their time.

[@HAL9000-su1mz]

Stude trivia: Fortunately, even the rear quarter panels unbolt. Thus, if hit in the rear fenders, the fenders can be unbolted and swapped out. The manual transmission models had what is called a "Hill Holder" which, when stopped on an uphill light or stop sign, you applied the brake, then let go of the pedal. The brake would hold the car from rolling backward while you dealt with throttle and clutch. Subaru later copied this. Many manual trans models had manual overdrive for a second ratio on 2nd and 3rd gears. The shift would occur by simply letting off the gas for a moment then re-applying it. Flooring the throttle would kick it out of overdrive for passing. If you revved the whee out of the engine, you could get an overdrive in 1st, thus 6 actual ratios. The automatics were Borg-Warner and normal driving ("D") used second and third gear, like a GM Powerglide. However, if you started on out in "L" you would get first gear. You could then manually shift up to "D" which would get you second gear. After it shifted, if you pulled the lever back to "L", it would hold second gear as long as you wanted. Shifting back to "D" would then allow it to go into 3rd. As to the grilles, have a look at the '56-'64 Hawk series. The Mercedes connection is more apparent. The final Studebaker sedans (1965-1966) were powered by Chevrolet engines: 230 sixes and 283 V-8s. Early Cadillac intake manifolds could be modified to fit the 232/259/289 V8s and many were swapped over.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Hal9000, amazing insight.. thanks for sharing. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for taking the time to watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@HAL9000-su1mz]

@@ClassicCarChitChat I was recalling a Studebaker-Packard youth!

[@leebarker539]

I had forgotten about the quarter panels. Check me on this: I believe the Lark bumpers are interchangeable as well as the taillight lenses. Radical, simple, cost-saving for the owner.

[@HAL9000-su1mz]

@@leebarker539 I think so. Coincidentally, AMC made a proto-Hornet that used interchangeable front AND rear fenders (LF=RR, RF=LR), bumpers and even doors. Thus they would make twice as many parts of half the car. Never made production.

[@elisabethhall2025]

Roy ❤

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Thank you Elizabeth.. Roy is truly an amazing guy.

[@nygelmiller5293]

WHAT a mancave! All those model cars, etc.etc., in the background! AND 2 of my favourite models in one garage! The LARK, and the AVANTI! But, then, the Avanti was, at first made by Studebaker!

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Couldn't agree more!

[@diegovasquez7048]

Another awesome video.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jeffking4176]

Studebaker was always innovative. I remember when these were on the roads. I’ve always been a Studebaker fan. 🚗🙂

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Jeff, I was truly impressed with Roy’s Studebaker collection and each one had features that were well ahead of their time. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos and subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. As you may have seen in my videos that my intention is to showcase not only the beautiful car and really give the owner of the car (the caretaker as Jay Leno rightly says) the opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@3rdgentexan301]

My first car was a Lark VIII black with red interior - my dad decided to sell it - when I was in the US Navy. Still miss the all the features of the Regal package.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

3rdgentexan, I can only imagine how much you still miss that car. Until I met Roy (please checkout the video I made of the “ultimate man cave”) I never quite realized how technically advanced Studebaker as a car maker was so far ahead f the other North American car makers. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos, subscribing to my channel, and also taking the time to leave a comment! My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@davejohnson2814]

Just Brilliant

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

It certainly is.

[@troycobb6925]

Truly a car ahead of its time.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Absolutely

[@larryfisher5796]

My Mom and Dad had a 1960 Lark 8 wagon I've got a lot a lot of great Memories of my folks and I taking road trips

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Larry, I’m glad this video brought back fond memories.I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos, leaving a comment and for subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. My intention when creating these videos is to showcase not only the beautiful car but give the owner an opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@nygelmiller5293]

To Larry Fisher. I envy you having gone for rides in a Lark wagon!

[@godfreyberry1599]

Well ahead of it's time - for sure.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Godfrey, I couldn’t agree with you more. The Lark and in fact any of the Studebaker cars have so many unique elements that we still use in today’s cars. If you get a chance check out the video I made about Roy’s ultimate man cave and his Avante. I also wanted to take a moment to personally thank for watching my videos and subscribing to my channel I truly appreciate it. As you may have seen in my videos that my intention is to showcase not only the beautiful car and really give the owner of the car (the caretaker as Jay Leno rightly says) the opportunity to share their story, love and passion for their car. Thanks again Kevin.

[@kenrobertson4109]

Another great video and a great car.

[@ClassicCarChitChat]

Glad you enjoyed it