1959 Studebaker Lark VI Deluxe

2-Door Sedan -

6 - Cyl.

Unspecified

59S64569

Gasoline

I am a 40 year Studebaker collector thinning out my flock, parting with this one, fairly recently aquired. This car deserves a garage that I just don't have for it. It is an "unmolested" California car with a mere 77,900 miles that rides and drives really well...I'd even say "like new" but smokes a bit...not real bad but noticable at high RPMs. Equipped with the original, unrebuilt 90 horsepower 170 cu.in flat head six cylinder and a perfectly working overdrive transmission, this car gets an honest 27 MPG at 60 MPH on flat ground. I prefer these cars original such as this but a small block Chevy V-8 would turn this 2,600 lb car into a hot rod. It is the lower priced "Deluxe" trim level car with a factory installed accessory kit that includes stainless steel windshield and rear window reveal mouldings, automatic dome light, rear seat ash tray, second interior sun visor and chrome grille surround. The original Studebaker AM radio does not work but everything else works beautifully including all lights, horn, wipers and heater (with a quiet fan!) The car was originally "White Sand", now, as you can see, dark metallic blue. The repaint included all door jambs, under the hood and trunk, as well as some new door gasket rubber. The body is mostly straight with the exception of a couple of dings and a fender bender on each rear fender. The left rear fender was poorly repaired long ago using too much filler and is beginning to crack. The right rear fender had someone back into it very recently. The rest of the body, including the doors, rocker panels and front fenders all pass the magnet test and show no evidence of repair. Floors are solid with some minor fiberglass repair in the front. All the glass is exceptionally nice with the exception of the right door vent window which was obviously replaced with a well used one that is delaminating somewhat. The car was givin an amateur restoration in the early '90s when it was painted and the interior got seat upholstery and a headliner and windlace. Since then it was sadly neglected - the paint faded out and rodents had their way with the upholstery in spots. I have since buffed out the paint which came back to life very nicely. The carpet is new. The radial tires in the correct size (205/75X15) are getting old but are not weather checked and the tread is like new. Very recent mechanical repairs include replacing the water pump, all tune-up parts, brakes, muffler, tie rods and bell-crank center pin. I depend on a friend to take digital pictures so don't wait until the last minute if you need more. Please ask questions if you have any doubts before you hit the "Place Bid" button! I am very knowledgeable about these cars and will be happy to speak to you on the telephone. I think this car would drive anywhere with many "thumbs ups" and without incident. Judging from some of the basket cases I see for sale this car is VERY reasonably priced. I have just lowered the Buy It Now price to $3K. Buyer is responsible for shipping or picking up the car. I can hold the car for a reasonable time if necessary. A $500 PayPal deposit is required with the balance by cashiers check, wire transfer or cash in person. Added 3/31/12 Several shoppers have asked about how much the engine smokes. I may have a friend who can take a video of the tail pipe emissions but until I can arrange that I will say that the smoking is considerable over 2000 RPMs but not noticable at idle or, at least by me, while cruising. With so few miles on it, this car obviously sat for may years and has only traveled about a hundred miles since the early 90's. It may have a stuck ring that will free up. It may respond well to heavier oil and/or the right oil additive which I have not tried. (Currently running Chevron 15w-40.) It may simply need a ring job. The engine runs smooth and has, I believe, all of it's 90 horsepower with good compression in all cylinders (140-150lbs.) The car drives so well it's my honest opinion that if the car had no engine at all it would be worth $2500. Feel free to call me at (707) 987-0254 Extn.22 with your questions and if you're local come see and drive it. Thanks! ~ Peter