Kaiser Henry J
The pioneering American compact car that prioritised economy over post-war excess.
- Power
- 68 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 20.4 s
- Top speed
- 77 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$28k
About the Kaiser Henry J
The Henry J was Kaiser-Frazer's attempt to capture the budget market, predating the American compact car boom of the 1960s. Named after company founder Henry J. Kaiser, it was designed to be as inexpensive as possible, originally lacking a boot lid and a glovebox to save costs. The 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine was sourced from Willys-Overland, the same unit used in the CJ Jeep, providing rugged reliability if modest performance. While it initially sold well, its Spartan nature and the arrival of more sophisticated competition led to its discontinuation after only four years.
Kaiser Henry J specs
The Kaiser Henry J produces 68 bhp (51 kW) and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 20.4 seconds and has a top speed of 77 mph (124 km/h).
| Make | Kaiser |
|---|---|
| Model | Henry J |
| Trim | 2.2 |
| Years | 1950–1954 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $1,400 when new |
| Engine | 2.2-litre Willys Hurricane inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,199 cc (2.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 68 bhp (51 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 20.4 s |
| Top speed | 77 mph (124 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,060 kg (2,337 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 64 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Kaiser Henry J worth?
A typical Kaiser Henry J is estimated to be worth $8,500 – $28,000 (about £6,300 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Kaiser Henry J rarity in CarSpot
The Kaiser Henry J is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Kaiser Henry J fun facts
- To reduce production costs, early models did not have a boot lid; the rear seat had to be folded down to access the luggage area.
- The Henry J was also sold through Sears, Roebuck & Co. department stores under the 'Allstate' brand name with minor styling changes.
- Despite its economy car roots, the Henry J became a favourite of drag racers in the 1960s 'Gasser' classes due to its lightweight body and short wheelbase.