Kissel Kar Model 6-45
This 1919 Kissel allows one to step into the realm of automotive rarity with this unique 1919 Kissel Gibraltar Model 6-45 Seven Passenger Touring. During the 1919 model year, Kissel unveiled its groundbreaking Model 6-45 chassis, featuring significant enhancements and a more powerful 6-45 engine. However, due to the overwhelming production demands of World War I trucks, the company faced a shortage of new bodies for these chassis. This led to a pragmatic decision by Kissel—to utilize their remaining stock of 12-cylinder 7-Passenger Touring bodies from the previous year’s Kissel “Double-Six” models and fit them onto the new Model 6-45 cars.
This particular vehicle in the Hausmann Kissel Collection stands as the sole surviving example of this type of Kissel Gibraltar 6-45 All-Year car. It was originally sold as a convertible- hardtop with a removable oak rear sedan top that could be lifted off to create an open touring car. Unfortunately, this top has been lost in the intervening century, but the anchorages in the lower body confirm that this car, indeed, is a Kissel All-Year Car. It boasts the distinct nickel radiator, huge 35” wheels, and body reminiscent of the 1918 Kissel “Double-Six,” while embracing the hood, chassis, and engine of the 6-45 series. This fusion of elements creates a truly exceptional automobile that showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of Kissel during a time of transition.
Kissel Gibraltar All-Year Design
Designated with the Kissel car plaque number 45-1003, this Kissel masterpiece is believed to be the third-ever produced 6-45 model, adding a further layer of significance to its already unique presence. With its survival as the sole survivor of its kind, this exceptional vehicle serves as a tangible link to Kissel’s early history and showcases the craftsmanship and innovation that defined the brand. It appears to be a complete, unmolested, never restored car.
Every curve, every detail, and every component of this 1919 Kissel Gibraltar tells a story. From the seamlessly blended body and chassis to the meticulously engineered engine, each element serves as a testament to the skill and dedication of the craftsmen who brought this vehicle to life.
The 1919 Kissel Gibraltar stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Despite the scarcity of new bodies during its production year, Kissel ingeniously repurposed existing components to create a car that defied convention and showcased its commitment to quality. This vehicle exemplifies the spirit of innovation that defined Kissel and solidified their place in automotive history.
As you step into the driver’s seat of the 1919 Kissel Gibraltar, you’re transported to an era of elegance, sophistication, and unparalleled craftsmanship. The unique combination of design elements from the “Double-Six” and 6-45 models creates a visual feast for the eyes, capturing the essence of a bygone era. Its nickel radiator and wheels harken back to a time when automobiles were crafted with meticulous attention to detail, while the powerful 6-45 engine provides a thrilling driving experience.
With its rich backstory and historical significance, the 1919 Kissel Gibraltar is more than just a car—it’s a tangible connection to the past. It is witness to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Kissel as they navigated challenging times and emerged triumphant. Whether displayed at a prestigious automotive event or enjoyed on the open road, this remarkable vehicle captivates the hearts and minds of all who encounter it.
The early provenance of this vehicle is unknown. It was once owned by the Klein family in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania in the 1960’s. The Hausmann Kissel Collection acquired this car in 2013 from a collector in Ontario, Canada. This car is also mentioned in the early written history of Kissel Kar company written by E. E. Husting in 1961.
PICTURES OF 1919 KISSEL
