When Kaiser-Frazer was founded in 1945 – the first new automaker of the post-war period – its clean-sheet styling was a breath of fresh air. While the big three soldiered along with pre-war designs, the new marque presented sleek models with fully integrated fenders and no hint of running boards. The look was modern, and sales were strong – but the truth is, in the post-war consumer frenzy, almost any car would sell. The ebullient economy imparted confidence to every CEO who operated within it – a confidence that was not always founded in reality. The six-cylinder Frazer was a decent if unspectacular car, but it was expensive, costing $2295 at introduction. Buyers could pay just $30 more and put a V8 Cadillac in the garage. That said, the Frazer is an historically interesting car that won’t be seen at every show this summer. If you have a predilection for orphans, check out this 1951 Frazer sedan here on facebook Marketplace. The asking price is $9000, and the car is located in Navarre, Ohio. JDC – master of the unusual – found this one for us – thanks!
Kaiser-Frazer was founded by two wealthy tycoons – Henry Kaiser from the steel industry and Joseph Frazer from the auto industry. One would think that Kaiser would listen to Frazer – as he had relevant experience – but that’s not how the pair rolled. In frustration, Frazer left the company in 1951, and his portion of the branding was terminated shortly after. Today’s featured sedan is one of the last of its kind. Unfortunately, while in 1947 the Frazer seemed fresh, by ’51, it was woefully frumpy. Other automakers evolved their designs and were installing V8s. Kaiser-Frazer was still buying 115 hp flathead sixes from Continental. At least this one has a manual transmission, albeit in the form of a three-speed column-shift. The seller reports that his car runs and drives well.
Kaiser-Frazer made several models from the family-oriented Special and Deluxe to the Darrin, Virginian, and Vagabond. For most of its history, the Frazer line was the upscale choice. Here, the interior is swanky, belying the demure exterior. I like the contrast! For context, horn rings, armrests, even dual sunvisors were still considered luxury appointments in the late 1940s/early 1950s.
The company’s on-again, off-again relationship with “Dutch” Darrin left an indelible imprint: most of its cars incorporated quirky features originally from Darrin’s pen, though the designs were moderated by in-house staff. The purebred Kaiser Darrin left the stylist’s expressions intact; that model can sell for six figures. But these family sedans are found in the mid to high four-figure range. What do you think of this ’51 Frazer? Is it worth the seller’s asking price?
Nice car! If all you have to do is drive it I guess 9k is a good price, and I’d drive it every chance I got.
It looks like its in nice shape. I like that it’s a Frazer which you see a lot less of over the Kaisers. I agree with what Jim Randall said above, for 9 grand, enjoy it and drive it. And be prepared to answer lots of questions. You can use Michelles write up here as an excellent source of information.