Highlights

Fabulous project, largely complete but disassembled
One of only 435 built, car number 161
Rare example, only 2 in the UK
Body restored in 2022
Engine stripped and fully rebuilt in 2022
Unique sliding doors

The Appeal

Designed by the legendary Howard "Dutch" Darrin, the Kaiser Darrin was a simply remarkable car. Perhaps one of the most extravagantly designed motors in American history - and that's no mean feat - the Darrin was a fibreglass-bodied beauty that broke most conventions.

Howard Darrin was known to be a bit of a precious chap when it came to his designs, and for many, the Darrin was one of the few cars manufactured that stayed true to his vision. Sliding doors, deep curves and protruding lines came together to make a car beyond most modern sensibility - almost space-age in its identity - although the regulation requirements still got the mercurial designer rather irritated.

In the end, it wasn't a success. Despite being a fine, solidly built car, only 435 were ever built - overtaken by the British roadster craze and tampered by Kaiser's own corporate issues. Of those 435, only two are known to have reached British soil - which makes this superb 1954 example a very rare little gem, and a very impressive canvas for a project.

A lot of work has already been completed - the body and chassis are practically like new following restoration, and the engine has been rebuilt. All that's left is to finish the job and put this remarkable car back together.

History and Paperwork

Registered in 1954
Previously based in California
Purchased from the Beverley Hills Car Club in October 2020
Imported to the UK in November 2022
Restoration undertaken in 2021-2022, bringing the car to its current condition
Some paperwork from the United States and invoices available
MOT exempt and not yet testable due to the car's disassembly

The Condition

Chassis and body look in very good order, having been completely restored
No sign of any cracks or damage to the fibreglass body
Paintwork in good condition
Grille has been rechromed and fitted correctly
Bumpers have been rechromed and not yet fitted
Newly fitted lights
Two original wheels supplied with sale, in need of restoration
Chassis and understand have been properly restored and are free of corrosion
Seats are present, in need of reupholstering
Original instruments and fittings are present with the sale

The Mechanics

161cu in (2.6-Litre ) F-head six-cylinder powerplant, capable of 90hp
Manual transmission with 3 gears
Engine and gearbox yet to be fitted to the vehicle
Engine stripped and fully rebuilt in 2022
Most mechanical parts are reportedly present for completion
Ultimately this looks like a very promising project for the lucky buyer

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

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