For 1949 Kaiser offered four series, the Special, Deluxe, Virginian, and the Vagabond. The cars were styled by a design team led by Bob Cadwalloder. Kaisers were known for their innovative color and trim combinations which were created by Carlton Spencer. One of the more distinctive cars in the 1949 Kaiser lineup was the Vagabond, a luxurious four-door sedan that was essentially two cars in one. The Vagabond was equipped with rear seats that folded flat and a double-hinged trunk that, when set up, transformed the sedan into a spacious carrier. A truly versatile car, the Vagabond would remain in Kaiser’s model lineup through 1950.

This 1949 Kaiser Vagabond is finished in the appealing shade of Blade Green, accented by beautiful brightwork throughout. It is equipped with a driver’s-side mirror and fender skirts and rides on wide whitewall tires mounted on painted steel wheels with factory wheel covers. The Vagabond is powered by a 226.2 cu. in. L-head inline six-cylinder engine which is paired to a three-speed column-shift manual transmission. The interior is trimmed in beautiful tan and features a clock, radio, and an unusual matching covered spare in the backseat on the driver’s side. When the car is transformed into carrier configuration, the beautiful wood slat work is on full display. This example was purchased by the current ownership from Monte Shelton, a well-known race-car driver and car dealer.

Kaiser remains a blip on the automotive radar, but one that left its mark with innovative offerings such as the versatile Vagabond.