THE ONLY STUDEBAKER LARK DAYTONA 500 RACE CAR IN EUROPE UP FOR AUCTION

THE ONLY STUDEBAKER LARK DAYTONA 500 RACE CAR IN EUROPE UP FOR AUCTION

An incredibly rare Studebaker Lark Daytona 500 race car will be offered for sale at Silverstone Auctions’ inaugural Autosport International Sale at the NEC, Birmingham on 12th January.

One of only four racing versions in existence and the only example in Europe, the American muscle car has been raced competitively at top level events over the last decade and will be offered at the auction with an estimate of £100,000 to £130,000.

“This car is not only exceptionally rare, it is a highly developed and extremely competitive car that is both beautifully prepared and expertly engineered,” comments Lionel Abbott, classic car specialist, Silverstone Auctions. “It’s one of the finest race cars in the auction and is sure to attract the eye of the many show-goers at the fantastic Autosport International show.”

Built-in 1965 in South Bend, Indiana, this particular example was later converted to a race car in the UK with no expense spared by renowned single seater experts Fortec Motorsport, with more recent works undertaken by historic saloon specialists, Richard Moore Racing.

Finished in White and configured in left-hand drive, it houses a freshly prepared Chevrolet V8 which is fully FIA compliant and produces circa 430 BHP. It runs to a minimum agreed weight of 1,200 kgs in the Masters series and is also rev limited to 7,000 RPM.

As the only racing Lark Daytona 500 in Europe, the car has been invited to compete at Goodwood five times over the last decade, gaining regular top finishes in the Pierpoint Cup, the Jack Sears Trophy and the St. Mary's Trophy. At the Goodwood Revival 2018, it qualified third overall and finished second overall in the St. Mary's Trophy celebrity race.

“This car is a ticket to compete at some of the most high profile historic races in the world. It is eligible for the 2019 Masters series as well as the 2019 HRDC Historic Touring Cars, Bernie's V8's and HSCC Touring Cars. It is also highly likely to receive further invitations to the various prestigious races at Goodwood, which is an incredible opportunity for any competitive racer,” concludes Lionel.

The car is accompanied by a host of comprehensive spares including 12 wheels and tyres, two limited slip differentials, spare body panels for front wings, doors, bonnet and boot (including moulds where appropriate) and many further assorted components.

To find out more about the 1965 Studebaker Lark Daytona 500 race car and the full lot list for the Silverstone Auctions Autosport International Sale visit http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/1963-studebaker-lark-daytona-500.