LOT 127

1954 Kaiser-Darrin 161 Convertible Chassis no. 161-001233

Sold for US$71,680 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 127

From the Ernie Boch Jr. Collection

America's first production fiberglass sports car
1954 Kaiser-Darrin 161 Convertible

The Audrain Concours Auction|4 October 2024, 17:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame

1954 Kaiser-Darrin 161 Convertible
Chassis no. 161-001233

161ci F-Head 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

*One of only 435 produced
*Beautifully restored in period-correct colors
*Penned by one of history's greatest designers
*Unmistakable pocket doors
*The first American fiberglass production fiberglass sports car
*Fitted with desirable wire wheels
*A legend of 1950s motoring

THE KAISER DARRIN SERIES 161

In the bustling years after World War II, American roads were peppered with ever growing numbers of European and British sports cars. American servicemen returning from overseas duty were bringing with them nimble little cars with gutsy engines and sleek styling. American manufacturers wanted in on the action, but nobody had a suitable car ready to compete with the European invaders. Ford and GM started work on their own interpretations of a sports car, while the independent Kaiser Motors also decided to toss their hat in the ring. 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 were sold as 1954 models and came equipped with a three-position Landau top, which was considered quite novel at the time, and possibly a nod to Dutch Darrin's work designing custom coachwork in the 1930s.

THE CAR OFFERED

As one just 435 produced in the limited production run, this Kaiser Darrin 161 Convertible is exemplary of this rare and innovative boulevardier. Wearing a very well detailed older restoration, this Kaiser Darrin is finished in the period-correct shade of Pine Tint with matching vinyl interior and three-position top. The wonderful period aesthetic is punctuated by B.F. Goodrich wide-white bias-ply tires on beautifully finished chrome wire wheels. Contrary to the ornate fins and chrome that began to prevail in American car design at the time, the Kaiser Darrin distinctly clean and unadorned, particularly when viewed in profile. This car's Glaspar-built body and Pine Tint paintwork are in excellent condition. Under the hood, Kaiser's robust F-head inline-six is clean and very nicely detailed, with authentic fittings and details like the oil bath air cleaner and Fram oil filter housing.

Though built in small numbers, it paved the way for the greater success of the Corvette and Thunderbird. While biased toward relaxed cruising as opposed to being an outright sports car, the Kaiser Darrin nonetheless marks a significant milestone for the American home-grown sporty car class and is a fascinating styling exercise from one of America's greatest industrial designers. This collector-grade example would be at home in a wide variety of collections.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact client services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
The final bid (hammer) price of each lot will be subject to a buyer's premium.
For MOTORCAR property the premium is 12% on the first $250,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $250,000.
For MOTORCYCLE property the premium is 15% on the first $100,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $100,000.
For AUTOMOBILIA or non motor vehicle property, the premium is 28% of the first $50,000 of the bid price, plus 27% of the amount of the bid price above $50,000 up to and including $1,000,000, plus 21% of the amount of the bid price above $1,000,000 up to and including $6,000,000, plus 14.5% of the amount of the bid price above $6,000,000.
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Collection Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Payment Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Shipping Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Storage Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.