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LOT 27

1951 Kaiser Deluxe Jade Dragon Chassis no. K512053525

Sold for US$39,200 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 27

'From the Maine Classic Car Museum Collection'
1951 Kaiser Deluxe Jade Dragon

1951 Kaiser Deluxe Jade Dragon
Chassis no. K512053525


226.2ci L-head Inline Six-Cylinder Engine
Single Downdraft Carter Carburetor
115bhp at 3,650rpm
4-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Front Independent A-Arm Suspension, Rear Live Axle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*A fine example of Kaiser's Dragon series sedans
*Believed to have 11,000 original miles
*Flamboyant "Dragon Skin" interior trim
*Styled by the great Howard "Dutch" Darrin


THE KAISER JADE DRAGON

For 1951, Kaiser debuted a completely redesigned lineup, featuring low-slung body styling by longtime affiliate Howard Dutch Darrin, which he billed as "anatomic design." The new Kaisers were attractive, with a quirky character that reflected the company's staunch independence. Lacking the budget of the Big Three, Kaiser made clever use of trim packages to differentiate the upmarket Deluxe from the entry-level Special. At the top of the line was the Dragon Series – a range of color and trim options all featuring unique heavy grain vinyl trim resembling expensive alligator leather. To avoid confusion and assure Kaiser's more budget-minded buyers, the marketing department took a tongue-in-cheek approach, advertising it as "Dragon Skin." There were various Kaiser Dragons based on color combinations – Jade Dragon, Golden Dragon, Silver Dragon, and so forth. All were based on the Deluxe series and featured Hydra-Matic transmissions and other premium options.

THE CAR OFFERED

The 1951 Jade Dragon offered here is remarkably well-preserved, showing just over 11,000 miles which is believed to be accurate. It is an early first series car, recognizable by its painted green roof, as opposed to the Dragon Skin-clad padded roof of later series. The two-tone green livery and fabulous Dragon Skin upholstery are pure 1950s gimmickry, and truly delightful. Options on this car include a Hydra-Matic transmission, oil-bath air cleaner, heater/defroster, pushbutton AM radio, and electric clock. The Kaiser Dragon is pure mid-century Americana, and this wonderfully preserved example is certain to turn heads.

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