1953 Kurtis Kraft 500S

Model History

Auction sales research

Specifications

Body styles and Chassis Data

Exterior Photos Interior Photos

Roadster Chassis Num: 500S-022   Sold for $203,500 at 2011 Gooding & Company. This Kurtis-Kraft 500S was built in the Kurtis-Kraft shop in Glendale, California and delivered to its first owner with a DeSoto engine in 1953. Shortly after being sold, it was struck from behind and in May of 1954, was returned to the factory where the damaged tail and deck lid were removed in order to repair the fuel tank. The engine was also removed and replaced by a Chrysler Hemi, motor number C53-8-I5990. To make room for the larger displacement powerplant, new motor mounts were fashions, as were suitable exhaust and headers. The radiator, transmission adapter and steering system were modified to cope with the jump in horsepower, and the 500S received a Hunt Vertex magneto, and a new flywheel and clutch. It was then repainted and Halibrand kidney-bean sports car wheels were installed, in place of the steel wheels. This roadster was purchased by its present owner on June 26th of 1976 from Eric Cameron, who was then liquidating his friend's Los Angeles estate. The car was kept in static storage for another three decades. In 2005, a restoration began, utilizing all the original alloy bodywork, chassis and suspension components. Upon completion, the car was campaigned in UK vintage races, participating in everything from VSCC events to several appearances at the prestigious Goodwood Revival. In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction where it was estimated to sell for $275,000-$350,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $203,500 inclusive of buyer's premium. By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2011

Auction Sales Information
Auction	Gooding and Company - Pebble Beach Auctions
Estimated Value:	$275,000-$350,000
Sale Price	$203,500

Event	Group
Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion	5B : 1947-55 Sports Racing and GT Cars
Gooding and Company - Pebble Beach Auctions	1950-1957

 

	1961 Porsche RS 61 Chassis: 718-068		1964 TVR Griffith Chassis: 2006001E
	1964 Bobsy SR3