1954 Kaiser Darrin Sports Convertible

161ci OHV Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Single Downdraft Carburetor
90bhp at 4,200rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive
Independent Front Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*22 out of 435 produced
*Largely original and unrestored
*Innovative and epic automotive styling
*A legend of 1950s motoring

THE KAISER-DARRIN SERIES 161

To compete with the imports, swift action was needed, so Kaiser enlisted the famed industrial designer Howard "Dutch" Darrin to produce a fiberglass-bodied sports car based on the compact Henry J. economy car.

The first prototype appeared at the New York Auto Show in 1953, just besting Chevrolet's Corvette to become America's first fiberglass production sports car. Beyond the sweeping profile and heart-shaped grille, the Darrin was most famous for its pocket doors that disappeared into the front fenders on sliding tracks. Construction of the fiberglass bodies was outsourced to Glaspar of California. Power is courtesy of the 161 cubic inch Hurricane F-head inline six. Just 435 of these stunning cars were built, making them both rare and desirable. All sold as 1954 models and came equipped with a three-position Landau top, which was considered quite novel at the time.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Being number 22 out of the 435 produced, this Kaiser-Darrin represents one of the few examples of the unique roadster from its limited the production run. As rare as it is innovative, this Kaiser-Darrin was finished new in the popular color scheme of Champagne Lacquer (white) over Scarlet Pincrush vinyl.

Entering the collection in February of 1997, it was previously owned by Emily LaRosa of Pompano Beach, Florida. Unfortunately, there is little known history prior to that at the time of cataloging. The subject of an exterior repaint and carpet retrim at some point before coming to Tupelo, this rare three-position droptop appears otherwise to be largely as it left the factory. The engine bay could use some cleaning but is well organized while the interior shows nicely and includes the (at the time) optional seat belts. Additionally, the car is equipped with the desirable wire wheel covers—however only 75% of them are still with the car.

Few cars possess the style and elegance of the Kaiser-Darrin. With so few examples left in existence, this great car is sure to command attention. To own Kaiser-Darrin 22 is an opportunity to enjoy a rare, iconic American sports car.