1954 Kaiser Darrin

Introduced for the 1954 model year, the Kaiser Darrin is a fiberglass-bodied American roadster distinguished by its patented sliding pocket doors and powered by a Willys-sourced 161ci inline-six, with just 435 examples produced. Developed under the direction of Howard “Dutch” Darrin for Kaiser Motors, it was conceived to compete with European sports cars and early domestic rivals such as the Chevrolet Corvette (C1), and stands among the earliest American production cars to feature a fiberglass body. This example was reportedly rescued by the seller approximately one year ago from long-term barn storage in Tennessee, where it had remained for several decades, and has since been recommissioned for driving. An authentic barn-find suitable for enjoyment as-is or as the basis for a complete restoration, this rare Kaiser Darrin is now being offered for auction in Oklahoma. Click here to view the previous PCARMARKET listing.

The Kaiser Darrin features a lightweight fiberglass body mounted over a steel frame, characterized by low, flowing pontoon-style fenders, a long hood, and a compact rear deck. Its most distinctive element is the pair of patented sliding pocket doors, which retract forward into the front fenders on tracks rather than opening outward. Exterior details include a narrow chrome grille, a wraparound “Darrin dip” cutline along the doors and rear fenders, a white convertible soft top, a driver’s side mirror, windshield wings, and chrome bumpers. This car is said to have been refinished in white during the 1970s. It rides on 15” steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and whitewall tires. The seller notes the paint retains a shine while exhibiting age-appropriate patina. Detailed images are provided in the gallery.