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Details
c1960 KING MIDGET ROADSTER
Engine No. 3583077
Pale lime green with white interior
Engine: Wisconsin single cylinder; Gearbox: single speed, chain drive; Suspension: independent all round; Brakes: four wheel hydraulic. Left hand drive.
Shortly after the end of World War II, Claude Dray and Dale Orcutt developed the first King Midgets. Over time, the King Midget would undergo several evolutions and eventually became one of the longest running microcar manufacturers, with production from 1949 through to 1970. The first model was available as a 'do-it-yourself' kit through Popular Mechanics magazine and was marketed as the "World's Lowest-Priced Car," selling for about $270. By 1951, a second evolution was introduced offering customers the option of either kit or assembled, seating for two and a convertible top, together with a touch more power and styling reflecting the Willy's Jeep of the 1950s. These enhancements effectively doubled the cost. Come 1957, the King Midget received more changes including lengthening from 102 inches to 117 inches, a nearly 10 horsepower engine, and the addition of doors. Weighing about 700 pounds, the King Midget could reach nearly 50mph.
The subject offered today is believed to be from this evolution.
The overall condition is generally good, although the car has never been the subject of a complete restoration. The body is believed to be original to the chassis and is painted in period appropriate pale green. The white cloth interior is mostly incomplete. This example includes the roof frame and some weather panels, which are rarely seen. The engine is a simple one cylinder Wisconsin engine mounted in the rear and has not run in many years.
The King Midget is a rare American-built micro car and with some enthusiastic attention it is poised for fun.
WITHOUT RESERVE
Engine No. 3583077
Pale lime green with white interior
Engine: Wisconsin single cylinder; Gearbox: single speed, chain drive; Suspension: independent all round; Brakes: four wheel hydraulic. Left hand drive.
Shortly after the end of World War II, Claude Dray and Dale Orcutt developed the first King Midgets. Over time, the King Midget would undergo several evolutions and eventually became one of the longest running microcar manufacturers, with production from 1949 through to 1970. The first model was available as a 'do-it-yourself' kit through Popular Mechanics magazine and was marketed as the "World's Lowest-Priced Car," selling for about $270. By 1951, a second evolution was introduced offering customers the option of either kit or assembled, seating for two and a convertible top, together with a touch more power and styling reflecting the Willy's Jeep of the 1950s. These enhancements effectively doubled the cost. Come 1957, the King Midget received more changes including lengthening from 102 inches to 117 inches, a nearly 10 horsepower engine, and the addition of doors. Weighing about 700 pounds, the King Midget could reach nearly 50mph.
The subject offered today is believed to be from this evolution.
The overall condition is generally good, although the car has never been the subject of a complete restoration. The body is believed to be original to the chassis and is painted in period appropriate pale green. The white cloth interior is mostly incomplete. This example includes the roof frame and some weather panels, which are rarely seen. The engine is a simple one cylinder Wisconsin engine mounted in the rear and has not run in many years.
The King Midget is a rare American-built micro car and with some enthusiastic attention it is poised for fun.
WITHOUT RESERVE
Special notice
This lot is offered without reserve.