Interior Photos
Kissel began as a farm equipment manufacturer in Hartford, WI, switching to automobiles in 1908. They originally made all their own components, gradually evolving to an assembled car like the sporty Gold Bug and White Eagle Sportster of the twenties. The company manufactured and sold engines even after automobile production ceased in 1937. This car is an authentic 40-horespower chassis with L-head engine, a four-speed transmission and a full-floating rear axle. The body is a recreation from factory blueprints. The car has participated in many Horseless Carriage Club tours, as well as in the Ormond Beach Land Speed Record exhibition. The wide stance, low center of gravity, great driving position and exceptional brakes make this car a joy to drive.
The Kissel brothers lived in the town of Hartford, Wisconsin where they made their living by creating engines and farm equipment. In 1906 they shifted their priorities to the evolving automobile market and created the Kissel Motor Company. The company was owned by Louis Kissel and his two sons, William and George. In 1907 their first vehicle, the Kissel Kar, went on sale. It was powered by a four-cylinder engine that produced 35 horsepower. The engine was water-cooled and L-head configuration. In 1909 a six-cylinder engine was introduced and by 1913 electric starters had been adapted to their line of vehicles. In 1917 a Double Six V-12 became available. Many of the Kissel cars used the Warner 4-speed selective sliding gear transmission. Solid rubber tires with wood spokes were not uncommon on the Kissel Kars.
Another famous Kissel car was the All-Year featuring a removable hardtop, glass windows, and curtains. Among its innovations was the illuminated instrument panel, technology they claimed to have created.
Throughout the years the company had its share of ups and downs. The reputation and prosperity of the company was founded on quality, durability, advanced design, outstanding performance, and dependability. They were able to maintain this reputation because they were a low production company. With the onset of World War I, the name Kar was dropped from the line-up because of resemblance to German words. The company and its 1400 workers once again switched priority to producing trucks for the Army.
The Great Depression was responsible for the demise of the Kissel Automobile Company. In 1935 the company was reorganized and named Kissel Industries where they produced motors for Sears, Roebuck and Company. In 1942 George Kissel passed away and the company was sold to West Bend Aluminum Company.
| Year | 1911 |
| Make | Kissel |
| Model | Kar D-11 |
| Engine Location | Front |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel |
| Combined MPG | 0.00 |
| Engine Configuration | I |
| L-Head |
| Cylinders | 4 |
| Water-Cooled |
| Aspiration/Induction | Normal |
| Horsepower | 40.00 HP (29.4 KW) |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Petrol |
| Fuel Feed | Carburetor |
| Gears | 4 |
| Transmission | Manual |
