Retro Revival: A Custom Classic’s Journey This 1953 Kaiser Manhattan two-door sedan, a unique blend of vintage styling and performance enhancements, tells a story of dedicated restoration and customization. Reportedly refurbished and modified by a Kaiser Frazer Owners Club member in the 1990s, this Manhattan received Dragon model trim and a supercharged 226ci inline-six from a 1954 Kaiser. Purchased by the seller in 2021, it has undergone further enhancements, including a new head gasket, water pump, fuel tank, and a rebuilt transmission. The car’s tan exterior, complemented by a brown bamboo-textured vinyl top, exudes a classic charm. The supercharged engine, a significant upgrade, provides a distinct performance boost, transforming this sedan into a spirited cruiser.
Design Details: A Blend of Manhattan and Dragon Originally a Manhattan two-door sedan, this vehicle now sports the prestigious gold Dragon badges, adding a touch of exclusivity. The 1990s refurbishment included a repaint in tan, while the seller replaced the vinyl top, windshield, and window seals. Chrome bumpers and trim, a driver-side spotlight, rear fender skirts, 1954-model “Safety-Glo” taillights, and reverse lamps enhance the car’s vintage appeal. Chrome wire wheels with Coker Classic radial whitewall tires add a touch of elegance. The blend of Manhattan’s practicality with Dragon’s luxury creates a unique aesthetic. The installation of front disc brakes under current ownership improves stopping power, blending classic looks with modern safety.
Interior Comfort: A Brown “Dragon Skin” Retreat The interior, retrimmed in brown “Dragon Skin” vinyl with patterned cloth accents during the 1990s refurbishment, provides a comfortable and stylish cabin. Color-coordinated door panels, brown carpets, and a bamboo-pattern vinyl dashboard and parcel shelf create a cohesive look. Equipment includes a push-button AM radio, a heater/defroster, and front lap belts. An ivory-colored steering wheel frames a 120-mph speedometer and gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, amperage, and engine temperature. The five-digit odometer shows 48k miles, with approximately 10k added by the seller, though total mileage is unknown. Rust on the left-front floorboard, visible in the gallery, adds to the car’s authentic patina.
Performance and Power: Supercharged Six-Cylinder Muscle The replacement 226ci L-head inline-six, fitted with a McCulloch supercharger from a 1954 Kaiser, provides a significant performance upgrade. The engine has received numerous updates under the seller’s ownership, including a new head gasket, water pump, ignition components, rebuilt carburetor and alternator, and recored radiator. A four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission, rebuilt by the seller, sends power to the rear wheels. A new fuel tank, lines, sending unit, auxiliary fuel pump, and exhaust system further enhance the car’s reliability and performance. This modified Manhattan, with its supercharged engine and custom touches, offers a unique driving experience.
Summary:
- 1953 Kaiser Manhattan two-door sedan.
- Refurbished and modified in the 1990s and 2021.
- Supercharged 226ci inline-six from a 1954 Kaiser.
- Four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.
- Tan exterior, brown “Dragon Skin” vinyl interior.
- Dragon model trim and badging.
- Chrome wire wheels with whitewall tires.
- Front disc brakes, power steering.
- Rebuilt engine and transmission.
- Includes spare parts, literature, and service records.
- California title.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and condition are based on available information and may vary. Potential buyers should conduct their own inspection and verification.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
