1912 Kissel Kar Model D-11 Semi-Racer

Kissel began as a farm equipment manufacturer in Hartford, WI, switching to automobiles in 1908. They originally made all their own components, gradually evolving to an assembled car like the sporty Gold Bug and White Eagle Sportster of the twenties. The company manufactured and sold engines even after automobile production ceased in 1937. This car is an authentic 40-horespower chassis with L-head engine, a four-speed transmission and a full-floating rear axle. The body is a recreation from factory blueprints. The car has participated in many Horseless Carriage Club tours, as well as in the Ormond Beach Land Speed Record exhibition. The wide stance, low center of gravity, great driving position and exceptional brakes make this car a joy to drive.

By 1909, there were Kissel Kars available in several sizes and models priced from $1350 to $3000, and a six-cylinder model was soon introduced. For 1911, Kissel introduced an even more sporting touring car, with a double dropped chassis, and a variety of body types, now including a 'Semi-Racer' alongside other sporting touring cars, such as the 5 Passenger Touring, and the compact 'Toy Tonneau' as offered here.

Various sources differ on the wheelbases offered by Kissel; they reportedly range from 112 to as long as 132 inches, depending on the model. The D-11 is understood to have been built on a 124-inch wheelbase frame, and had a huge, 380 cubic inch engine, its cylinders cast in two pairs. Although Kissel built high-quality automobiles, it struggled through the late 1920s and filed for bankruptcy in 1930, its last efforts being large 6- and 8-cylinder vehicles for the 1931 model year.

Descriptions & Pictures by conceptcarz & bonhams