From Studebaker-Packard to Studebaker

The 1960 Studebaker Lark is a compact car that was produced by Studebaker beginning in 1959 though 1966. Studebaker originally operated under Studebaker-Packard Corporation before dropping “Packard” and returning to its Studebaker Corporation name.

The Lark

This vehicle was built not only in Studebaker’s South Bend, IA but also Hamilton, Ontario, CA, from 1959 to 1966 by Studebaker of Canada Limited. The 1960 Lark featured a compact design allowing for both style and function. It was available in different styles such as a two and four door sedan, and a station wagon. The Lark was the first compact car to feature a V8 engine, specifically the 259 cubic inch for performance. This engine could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph within a few seconds.

More from the Studebaker Class of 1960

According to Mac’s Motor City Garage, the Lark saw early success thanks to its redesign of Studebaker’s older full‑size platform, resulting in a significant sales jump from 1959 to 1960. The addition of new body styles, subtle styling changes, and the continuation of both six‑ and eight‑cylinder engine options helped the Lark maintain its competitive edge in a growing compact‑car market. However, increasing pressure from larger automakers would soon challenge Studebaker’s momentum.

See the 1960 Studebaker Lark in person

You can view The Lark up close inside our Hollywood Room at The Orlando Auto Museum. Explore thousands of iconic vehicles across multiple themed galleries inside one of the largest auto museums in the country.

Plan your visit

PURCHASE TICKETS and experience the full Auto Museum collection, including this beautifully preserved 1960 Studebaker Lark.