4 days ago
Lucky Car Collector Auctions Offers Orphan Car Icons from Nash, Frazer, and Studebaker
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Lucky Car Collector Auctions is putting the spotlight on three of America's most compelling orphan cars in its upcoming sale, offering bidders a rare chance to take home vehicles that defined innovation and individuality from automakers that no longer off the trio is a first-year 1963 Studebaker Lark Wagonaire, known for its ingenious retractable roof design — a feature so unique it was advertised as being able to carry a refrigerator upright. Finished with the Regal trim and powered by a 289-cubic-inch V8 paired with a column-shifted manual transmission, this Wagonaire remains in good driving condition and retains its distinct mid-century charm. As Studebaker's response to the utility needs of families and adventurers alike, this early crossover concept remains a standout among vintage of only 62 Manhattan convertible sedans built in 1949, this Frazer represents postwar luxury at its rarest. Restored in the early 2000s to a high standard and finished in its original Caribbean Coral hue, this award-winning example was honored with the Kaiser-Frazer National Gold Award. With its elegant design, 226-cubic-inch six-cylinder engine, and open-top configuration, it's both a showpiece and a tourer, ideal for collectors seeking exclusivity and impressive is this 1955 Nash Ambassador Country Club, one of fewer than 1,800 produced. Designed with input from Italian styling house Pinin Farina and powered by a Packard Jetfire V8 engine, this top-of-the-line Nash blends style, comfort, and engineering vision. Recently restored and loaded with factory air conditioning and the rebuilt Ultramatic transmission, it showcases the last gasps of Nash's independent innovation before merging into American Motors Corporation. With just over 41,000 believed-original miles and extensive documentation, it's a show-ready classic with unmatched authenticity.
These three orphans—each with rich backstories and preserved originality—demonstrate the uniqueness and legacy of defunct American marques. Lucky's upcoming auction is a chance to celebrate, preserve, and drive home a piece of automotive history that stands apart from the crowd.
These adorable orphaned babies are being sold at the Spring Classic 2025 Auto Auction taking place Saturday, May 31, and Sunday, Jun 1 at the LeMay Marymount Event Center.
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