The Kaiser-Frazer Corporation was a short-lived auto manufacturer, starting at the end of World War II in a joint operation with Graham-Paige, which had built some notable cars before the war.
Of the many orphan brands scattered through automotive history, Kaiser is a minor player, mostly remembered for its quirky lineup of Henry J compact cars (named for Henry J. Kaiser) as well as the stylish Kaiser-Darrin, a limited-production sports car designed by Howard “Dutch” Darrin.
That, and the company’s acquisition of Willys, maker of the Jeep, effectively becoming Willys Motors in 1953 and eventually, Kaiser Jeep, which was later sold to AMC.
The Pick of the Day is a 1953 Kaiser Special, part of the automaker’s ambitious effort to build a premium sedan to compete with those of the Detroit Big 3. Despite its attractive styling and reputation for durability, the Special was a modest seller.
“This 1953 Kaiser Special is one beautiful car,” says the Kentwood, Michigan, dealer advertising the car on ClassicCars.com. “Showing in a lovely Bermuda Rose with great chrome this car cleans up well!
“With heavy documentation, this vehicle has been serviced frequently, shown annually at over 20 car shows, and has been loved dearly by its owner.”
No mention in this ad of any restoration history for the sedab, although the paint at least appears to have been resprayed. The odometer shows 47,640 miles, although there is no indication in the ad whether the mileage is authentic or if the car is in original condition.
The sedan appears to be in completely stock condition, powered by its correct flathead 6-cylinder engine and column-shifted manual transmission.
“The car originally sold new out of Nevada in 1954 and was later licensed in California,” the ad says. “The interior is very clean and tidy with a beautiful classic display along the dashboard. With three large totes full of documents and records, this car has a history of greatness.”
With the Kaiser sedan’s rarity and “history of greatness,” the modest asking price of $15,900 seems like a good deal for something you’re unlikely to see parked next to you at a car show.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
Beautiful car. It reminds me of the same one in the Johnny Depp movie “Crybaby”
CONFUSED AT TIMES ABOUT THE KAISER AND THE FRASIER I was told they were made in HARTFORD WI.