I have an opportunity to get a 1954 Kaiser Darrin. Does anyone know anything about these? To me they look cool and ugly all at the same time. I would probably do the deal just to flip the car, but not knowing anything about them I'm kind of nervous. Any info on what to look and look out for would be appreciated. Thanks.
These are rare beasts. Learn more from via this link: http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z1723/Kaiser-Darrin.aspx
Designed by Howard (Dutch) Darrin who also created Packard Darrins (very cool,collectible, and$$$$ ).
Make sure you get all of it. This is not a car you want to be chasing trim parts or gl*** for. A good one is worth some $$.
It's a very desirable car. Value has everything to do with how complete, correct and the quality of work done on it. Just a glance at the pics of the upholstery and such would have me checking all the work very carefully. The market is pretty soft on stuff like this right now. For a quick flip, I would proceed with extreme caution.
The Lemay collection in Tacoma Wa has one that was their featured car in their annual car show and auction two (?) years ago. They had just finished the restoration on the car pictured in my attachments (taken last Saturday at this years show). If my memory serves me right I think they are fibergl*** bodied. I don't have more specific contact information but there is likely a wealth of info. to be had there if you can locate someone involved in the restoration....
those are awsome get it and keep it, all i really know is that the tail lights rule and replacement lenses are are hard to find expensive (im putting some on my plymouth)
+2 Flipping in the current environment could be hazardous. They are cool cars but not really sports cars. I think they are attractive except for the kiss grill. I would not turn it away if one was given to me but I'm not sure I would pay a ton.
I was at a barn looking at a old car. The older gentlemen said have you ever seen one of these. I didn't know what it was. I just thought that was pretty cool back in the day to see a door slide into a fender and disappear. Do you know how many are around?
Rare indeed. Only 435 made, one year only production. A well-restored one, even in this economy, will bring $100K+ at auction. You'll make your money when you buy it, not when you sell.
there used to be one at a wrecking yard (rays) in Everett years ago. The crazy yard owner would not sell it and it just deteriorated. Don't know what happened to it, yard has been closed and gone for years
...Wait for it...that's what she said! dumb response of the day...[/QUOTE] I second- and third- that one...
Looks pretty original except for the "Kragen" hubcaps! Darrin's had there own simulated wire wheel hubcaps. Very hard to find & usally $$$. Every one I have seen had a flathead 6 Continental motor. That one looks like a Willys 'F' head. Make sure it is the original motor, it affects the value quite a bit. good luck, Nice car!
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