Kaiser-Frazer was founded in 1945, seemingly with every advantage at its fingertips: two big-name industrialists with plenty of money, ideas galore, and an eager post-war buying public. In 1946, the company unveiled two models at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, and by 1947, it had purchased Graham-Paige, which provided much-needed facilities, personnel, and experience – particularly in the form of Graham-Paige’s president, Joseph Frazer. Powerhouse designer “Dutch” Darrin’s Los Angeles studio was commissioned to generate the fresh styling that sold so well against the Big Three. Unfortunately, a falling out between the two founders and a massive pile of expensive debt plunged Kaiser-Frazer into a tailspin. It eventually merged its way out of existence. Here on craigslist is an early example from this short-lived company’s production history – a 1948 Kaiser Special sedan. The car is located in Moses Lake, Washington, and the seller is asking $10,000. Thanks to Curvette for the great tip!
Initially, Kaiser-Frazer divided its offerings between downmarket Kaisers – called “Special” and “Custom” – and upscale Frazers – the “Standard” or “Deluxe”. Despite minor sheet metal and trim differences, the same Continental 226 cu. in. six-cylinder flathead powered the whole line-up. Output was around 100 hp. This example is fitted with a three-speed manual with overdrive. Looks like she hasn’t run in a while, judging by the dust, though the seller notes the car has accumulated several trophies over the years.
The Special was the base model in Kaiser-Frazer’s line-up, with simpler interior fabric options, less brightwork, and a slender equipment list. Here, the restoration work still looks good inside and out – it’s easy to understand the shelves of trophies. Notwithstanding the tidy but bland cabin above, Kaiser-Frazer was fortunate to have Carleton Spencer on board in the company’s style department. Spencer was a revolutionary when it came to unusual materials and colors. He developed the unusual embossed “Dragon” upholstery for the Kaiser line, and it was his influence that brought a kaleidoscope of fresh paint colors – like Indian Ceramic and Glass Green – to the entire industry.
As the years rolled by, Dutch Darrin put his imprint on Kaiser-Frazer cars ever more obviously, styling waistlines with the “Darrin dip” and adding a widow’s peak to roof lines. The effort failed to generate enough interest: all in all, Kaiser-Frazer – later just Kaiser – managed to produce 950,000 cars from 1947 to 1955, including the Henry J, the Kaiser-Darrin, and its entire global production. Unfortunately, as fast as the cars went out the door, the losses mounted. This offbeat brand would be a novel sight at Cars ‘N Coffee, and it also offers a reasonably-priced way into the world of vintage cars. Here’s a 1951 Deluxe, exhibiting more pronounced Dutch Darrin signature styling, that sold for $10,600 recently. What do you think is a reasonable price for this Special?
Poor little orphan car that nobody will want, the next owner will probably be the last.
I say cheap fun for 10k! Through check over and drive it EVERY chance you get!