Gas & Golf

Rare example of first ever production petrol powered golf cart to be auctioned; the 1957 Jato Walker Executive, however, does not come cheap

Whilst British golfers will be celebrating that they have been allowed to get back to the game that someone (but not Mark Twain) once said is “a good walk spoiled” by the government this week, their American cousins more likely will be found touring their courses on electric golf carts when they are again allowed out.

For a wealthy sort looking for something a little different to show off with on the fairway, RM Sotheby’s have just the thing. They are currently selling a 1957 Jato Walker Executive 8-horsepower Kohler, petrol-powered golf cart.

The three-wheeled vehicle was designed by a Kansas farmer and inventor named Max Walker after he became frustrated by the fact that electric carts with batteries often failed to last an entire round of play. His project, however, was short-lived as with improvements to battery technology, electric alternatives took hold and he sold the rights to Jato Manufacturing.

Of it, RM Sotheby’s remark: “The Jato Walker Executive is a charming bit of mid-century modern design… It runs well and is a delight to drive, motoring along with ease from either seat.”

The auctioneers have set an estimate of £8,200 to £12,300 ($10,000 to $15,000, €9,300 to €13,900 or درهم37,000 to درهم55,000) for this “finely restored example” and will sell it as part of their 21^st to 29^th May 2020 ‘Driving Into Summer’ sale.

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