Clory Lanzotti's 1953 Studebaker

Clory Lanzotti's 1953 Studebaker showcasing its distinctive custom modifications, including sleek, cantilevered rear fins and a striking mountain laurel pink lacquer finish. Lanzotti's Studebaker is a notable example of custom car craftsmanship from the late 1950s, having been featured in Customs Illustrated September 1960. Lanzotti’s customizations to the vehicle were carried out with the assistance of Mac's Auto Body, also located in Carteret. Photo from The Ray Soff Collection - Kustomrama.

A rear view of Lanzotti's Studebaker, highlighting its unique cantilevered rear fins and molded continental kit. Photo from The Ray Soff Collection - Kustomrama.

The Customs Illustrated magazine spread from September 1960 featuring Lanzotti's Studebaker. Highlights include the distinctive cantilevered rear fins, molded continental kit, and one-of-a-kind Plexiglas taillights. Photo and article courtesy of Customs Illustrated.

1953 Studebaker owned by Clory Lanzotti of Carteret, New Jersey. Lanzotti's Studebaker is a notable example of custom car craftsmanship from the late 1950s, having been featured in Customs Illustrated September 1960. Lanzotti’s customizations to the vehicle were carried out with the assistance of Mac's Auto Body, also located in Carteret.

Design and Modifications

Lanzotti's Studebaker featured a unique blend of custom bodywork and details that set it apart from the factory models. One of the standout elements of the car’s design was the large, cantilevered rear fins, each about seven feet long, which were formed from 20-gauge sheet metal. These fins were designed to enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamic flow and provide a dramatic visual effect. In addition, the rear continental kit of the car was molded into the body, adding a smooth, seamless look that was both functional and artistic.

Another distinctive feature of the car was the custom-made grille, which was crafted by Lanzotti from flat steel. The grille included vertical and horizontal bars that locked together perfectly, providing a unique yet balanced front-end appearance.

Body Work and Painting

The body work on Lanzotti’s Studebaker was performed by Mac's Auto Body. The craftsmanship included not only the creation of custom fins and body panels but also precise attention to the vehicle’s overall shape and flow. The car was painted in a striking mountain laurel pink lacquer, which added a vivid, standout appearance that was especially eye-catching against the dramtic lines of the body.

Functional and Aesthetic Enhancements

Among the more technical modifications were adjustable and removable shaded headlights, a feature that was considered unusual at the time. Furthermore, the vehicle’s taillights were custom-made from one-piece Plexiglas molds. Lanzotti utilized male and female molds to create these taillights, which were heated in an oven to 420°F before being set in place. The Plexiglas design was intended to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding to the overall futuristic look of the car.

Interior Details

The interior of the Studebaker was customized to match the exterior modifications. The seats were upholstered in charcoal grey and pink Naugahyde, while the floor and trunk carpets were made from matching grey rug material. These interior details not only complemented the body’s pink lacquer but also created a cohesive and stylish environment within the car.

Magazine Features and Appearances

Customs Illustrated September 1960