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14/06/2023 5:49 pm
When the Frazer was phased out, Kaiser took on the 'Manhattan' name which was Frazers top model. Unable to upgrade their running gear (a deal with Oldsmobile to use their V8s was nixed by the War Department due to Korean War production needs), they gave Howard "Dutch" Darrin full reign to redesign the Kaiser body for '52 and '53 including the famed "Darrin Dip" at the rear quarter panels as well as center dips on the front and rear framing the wide curved glass. As a kid, I thought those center dips and sleek styling would have made a great Batmobile. Safety and luxury features abounded including pop-out windscreen, padded dash and recessed dash controls. With the cabin regally appointed, only its lack of a new power train kept it from being vastly superior to its contemporaries. The last picture is the last face lift before Kaiser packed up and continued production in Argentina until 1962 under the Carabela marque. I love the new baleen grill with faux hood scoop.
14/06/2023 6:16 pm
Thanks Rich. A unique vehicle that caught many an eye despite dropping sales and ultimate discontinuation. I actually saw a few when I was last in Argentina in 2010.
14/06/2023 6:46 pm
Wonderful pictures and writeup Rich.
14/06/2023 7:31 pm
A FANTASTIC effort by HW61. I was shocked they chose such an obscure make/model but then again.... What an opportunity, right? I love the few I have. That spare wheel and removable cover plate demonstrate HW61's commitment to detail. From any angle, this Kaiser looks great!
Nice pics Rich.
14/06/2023 8:13 pm
For those unfamiliar with this model, it was beautifully done in 1/18 scale by Highway 61 some years back. As mentioned, it is such a beautiful car and model and the real one was only lacking V-8 power at the time, even though a supercharger was added as an option to the six. I am glad I have this one and 2 other excellent colors they did, but it would have been additionally great if a Dragon 1/18 had been able to proceed forward with.
Jack Dodds and Marty Johnson reacted