Lot 160

St. John's 2011

1954 Kaiser-Darrin Roadster

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$74,250 USD | Sold

United States | Plymouth, Michigan

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Chassis No.
161001110
Engine No.
6P21317
Body No.
161-1110

90 bhp, 161 cu. in. overhead valve six-cylinder engine, three-speed transmission with overdrive, coil spring independent front suspension and leaf spring and live axle rear suspension, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 100"

- Original, matching chassis and body numbers

- Recent sympathetic cosmetic restoration

- All mechanical systems fully inspected and rebuilt

With its unique pocket doors and unusual styling, the Kaiser-Darrin beat the Corvette to market by one month, which did more than irk the Chevrolet Division executives. Although far outlived by the Corvette, the surviving examples of the Kaiser-Darrin are all the more cherished by enthusiasts. Chassis 161001110 was discovered by the previous owner some years ago, and he went on to tour the car across the country. The current vendor acquired it three years ago and recently completed a thorough cosmetic and mechanical restoration. The brand-new Code 7203 Pine Tint pincrush vinyl and Cal-Point short loop rust Tan colored carpet have been professionally installed. The vendor left the original exterior gel coat finished in the Code 154 Pine Tint lacquer which displays moderate patina; however any brightwork showing age was professionally repaired and re-plated. Completing the exterior preservation are the original three-position top and side curtains.

All mechanical systems were serviced, including new rings and gaskets for the engine, which is reported to perform flawlessly as do the new clutch, pressure plate and throwout bearing. The transmission was inspected and only required fresh gaskets. Ancillary systems were sorted out as well; the fuel system was restored from the fuel tank, lines and carburetor. The starter and generator were also fully rebuilt and operate nicely in the original six-volt configuration. The radiator was re-cored, and the brake system was overhauled with a rebuild and sleeving of the master and wheel cylinders. Although the wiring is original, it functions well, and the whole car performs just as it did when new, due in part to the high quality of the work as well as a new set of Coker radial tires. Mechanically sorted, it is ready to be driven and enjoyed or could form the solid basis for a more thorough concours refurbishment.