Useful Information About The Kissel Motor Car Company

The Kissel Motor Car Company is a favorite with classic and antique automobile enthusiasts. The company came out of the American Midwest, Hartford, Wisconsin, which is pretty close to Milwaukee, and not far from Chicago. It's founder started it in 1906. It was a good business until the great depression came along. The company filed for bankruptcy in 1930. The manufacturer made more than 35,000 motor vehicles during its course of business. Today there are only 150 of these motor vehicles in existence.

Some of the motor cars that have survived are stored in museums or other similar institutions. Their product line was quite varied. In addition to passenger automobiles, they built fire trucks, police vehicles, ambulances, hearses, and military vehicles. The United States military was a big customer. The company was quite patriotic and supported American war efforts. The were a major producers of outboard boat engines.

Some celebrities owned models. The famous lady pilot, Amelia Earhart, owned a 1923 "Goldbug", six cylinder, 41 horse power, Model 45 Speedster. She loved this car so much she gave it two nicknames: "Kizzle" and "Yellow Peril", because of its bright yellow color. Next to flying airplanes, Amelia Earhart loved driving a motor car. The "Yellow Peril" can be seen at a car museum in Denver, Colorado. Motor car fans are lucky that this beautiful machine has been preserved.

Fatty Arbuckle, a corpulent Hollywood comedic movie star, bought a 1919 Speedster "Goldbug". Celebrity types were attracted to the stylish, sporty look. The sports models were painted bright exotic colors. The shape and cut of the lines invoked adventure and an hint of danger. With this in mind, it is easy to understand how an adventuress and a movie star would desire to own one.

If these cars were being made today, people would say they are "hip". This is the same impact they had when they were being made back in the day. They were sophisticated, a little gaudy, but still aesthetically fulfilling. The engineering was considered impeccable. They contributed to setting the standard for excellence in automobile design.

Every vehicle was manufactured using an aesthetic sensibility that does not exist today. Stylish, sporty, suave are some of the adjectives that could be applied. Fortunately, classic and antique car enthusiasts can tour museums where the great motor cars of the past are on public display. Another venue would be car shows and similar events. There is nothing like being able to see these machines for yourself.

Museums, car shows, and other events like this are a great way to experience antique and classic motor vehicles. This is a fun experience for every member of the family. Its an educational adventure that kids will love, and grown-ups will enjoy as well.

For enthusiasts and fans of vintage and antique motor cars, Kissel will have a special place in their hearts. Thankfully there are a few of these exquisite machines for us to still enjoy. Visiting museums, shows, and special events helps keep the spirit of vintage cars alive.