The 1951 Henry J DeLuxe was a pioneer American compact, the attempt by tycoon Henry J. Kaiser to reach less affluent buyers who could only afford a used car.
A good idea messed up with dumpy styling (selected over several better-looking proposals, including one by Howard Darrin with a familial relationship to the stunning '51 Kaiser), very plain interior decor, sparse standard equipment, and a steep price (not much less than that of a full-size Chevy, Ford, or Plymouth).
Total model year production was 81,942 units, with the six-cylinder DeLuxe slightly leading the four-cylinder standard version.
Pluses of the 1951 Henry J DeLuxe:
- Surprising performance and handling
- Reliable engine
- Low operating costs
Minuses of the 1951 Henry J DeLuxe:
- Low-buck finish inside and out
- Rust-prone
- Dumpy styling
Production of the 1951 Henry J DeLuxe:
43,400 (estimated)
Specifications of the 1951 Henry J DeLuxe:
Wheelbase, inches: 100.0
Length, inches: 174.5
Weight, pounds: 2,341
Price, new: $1,499
Engines for the 1951 Henry J DeLuxe:
| Type | Size | Horsepower | Years |
| sv I-6 | 161 cid | 80 | 1951 |
Want more information about classic cars? See:
- Classic Cars
- Muscle Cars
- Sports Cars
- Consumer Guide Auto
- Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search