Formerly part of the Frazer model lines, the Manhattan nameplate was applied to an upmarket variant of the Kaiser beginning with the 1952 model year. A highly stylish vehicle, the Kaiser Manhattan was one of Americas most unique automobiles of the 1950s, penned by Duncan McRae and Howard Dutch Darrin, the legendary elite designer and coachbuilder of the prewar era. In addition to its heart-shaped upper windshield, bold Darrin Dip to each side, and headlamps similar to Buicks XP-300 show car, the Manhattan featured a wide array of two-tone paint combinations and stylish interiors trimmed in two-tone cloth and durable Bambu embossed vinyl, bamboo-patterned material.
 
Powering the Manhattan was a sturdy Continental Supersonic Six  engine displacing 226 CI and delivering 119 factory-rated horsepower via a 3-speed manual or 4-speed GM Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Fuel economy was remarkably good and mechanical components were durable and perhaps overbuilt for family motoring. Advertised when new as one of the safest cars available, the Manhattans production run was relatively brief, ending in 1955 after a mild restyling for 1954 and company founder Henry J. Kaisers abandonment of automobile manufacturing for a major investment in the Permanente hospital chain, known today as Kaiser Permanente. Just 4,109 examples of the Manhattan were produced in all; however, the Manhattan remains a popular and unusual 1950s collector car today, benefiting nicely from remarkably strong parts availability and enthusiastic Kaiser-Frazer club support.
Handsomely finished in Ivory over Green two-tone paint with a matching interior scheme, this 1953 Kaiser Manhattan is a wonderful example benefiting from long-term original ownership, followed by inclusion in the noted Bill Miller Collection at just 20K miles. Just 20,399 miles are currently indicated. Refinished in its original color combination, this Manhattan retains the all-original interior, upholstery, and trim. Other desirable highlights include the renowned GM Dual Range Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission, plus a retrofitted AM/FM radio. Highly attractive and benefiting from long-term original ownership and collector care, this Manhattan is simply a great example of a rare 1950s design. Contact us today for full details and make it yours!