The King Midget: A Quirky Classic or a Bargain?
The King Midget is a unique car, to say the least. With its mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive convertible design and a 12-horsepower lawn mower engine, it's a true oddity. But is it a bargain at $7,000?
This 1967 King Midget III, the final year of production, is up for grabs. It's been in the same family since 1981 and comes with a clean title and street registration. The seller claims it runs great, but it needs a brake master rebuild due to a dropped pedal issue.
What makes this car truly special is its history. The Midget Motors Company, founded in 1946, produced the King Midget for 20 years, a remarkable feat for any car, let alone one with a lawn mower engine. The company's founders, Claud Dry and Dale Orcutt, met in the Army Air Corps during WWII and envisioned a single-seat car kit. Their creation evolved into a turnkey model with tandem seating, hydraulic brakes, and even an electric windshield wiper.
The 1967 Midget III showcases the final iteration, featuring a Kohler K301 engine, centrifugal clutch, and belt-driven continuously variable transmission. It also has an electric start and reverse gear, optional extras when new.
But is it a practical car? Not really. With a top speed of around 45 mph, it's more of a novelty than a daily driver. However, its quirky design and history make it a fun car for parades or as a conversation starter.
The $7,000 price tag is a point of contention. Is it a fair price for this unique car? Or is it too much for a lawn mower-powered oddity?
In my opinion, the King Midget's value lies in its quirkiness and historical significance. It's not a practical car, but it's a piece of automotive history that deserves appreciation. The price might be a bit steep, but for the right enthusiast, it could be a bargain.
What do you think? Is the King Midget a classic worth investing in, or just a quirky oddity? The decision is yours!
