Summary

Beautiful older restoration of a lifelong California coupe. Body #65 of only 435 produced. One owner for 55 years. Early V8 conversion with automatic transmission. A blast to drive.

Details

This beautifully proportioned 2-seater was called the Kaiser-Darrin because it came from wealthy industrialist Henry J. Kaiser's fairly large Kaiser-Frasier auto company and was designed by legendary custom coach builder, Howard A. 'Dutch' Darrin. The first true American sports car with its prototype introduced even before that of the Corvette and T-Bird. Always a forward thinker, Darrin incorporated his patented sliding 'pocket' doors and 3-position convertible top. Bodies supplied by Glasspar Boat Company, a pioneer in the use of fiberglass for specialized cars. This is body number 65 of only 435 Kaiser-Darrins ever built during only one year of production. There were no factory records kept, but somewhere between 50 and 100 cars that were left over were sent to Los Angeles, California to be sold from Dutch Darrin's showroom. Some of these were fitted with supercharges or V8 engines to make them more saleable, as well as improving drivability and performance. This car is an early V8 conversion following Darrin's lead. A one-owner Southern California car for 55 years. Restored 15 to 20 years ago and recently re-restored. Features include 289cid V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, 3-position Landau top, wire wheel covers, wide white wall tires, heater and patented pocket doors. Truly unique styling with a front that 'always looked like it wanted to give you a kiss.' A rare opportunity to own a fascinating piece of automotive history.