1954 Manhattans

[Carpenter]

From time to time I see reference to "all of those 1954's that are still around". Were are they?

[joefrazer]

I count at least three between two friends and myself. I've parted out four over the years as well.

[dusty]

I have 3, 1 can be restored has an excellent grill never been wrecked, 1 is ready for the stored 226 and Dusty is a 2nd owner car that i used to drive to meets. the car came from CLARK MOTORS in Klamath Falls Or. the original owner was Bob Clark the first owner.

[Bob G]

Gas tank is being removed for inspection at this time. Again thanks to all for the advice. Will post the solution.

[Carpenter]

Huh?

[Bob G]

Regarding "Huh". I responded to the wrong message. Sorry!

[Carpenter]

Back to my question.  Are they personally owned or across the country in junk yards?  There ARE thousands, right?

[rialto]

1954 was a very low production year but the survival rate of 54s is probably the highest of any year. It just seems like a lot were saved considering how many were made.

[Carpenter]

Where are they?  Anyone know...or have a list?

[joefrazer]

There are about 130 in the club's registry, (add to that about fifty 55s), which based on the number built would imply a high survival rate. That may be due to the supercharger and it's novelty...people saved these cars because of the unique engine configuration. Or, perhaps it was as my father said, any Kaiser stood out in a crowd, but the 54 really made an appearance.

Here's a picture of mine after being pulled out of 12 year's storage.

[Carpenter]

No doubt about it, Joe, they are beautiful cars.  And to think, that sleek body came out in 51 when the other cars were still boxes or boxes with round corners.

Don't know if you noticed, but the silhouette of the 95-96 Impala SS was a carbon copy of the silhouette of the 54 Kaisers....and  I like them too.  Ha...4 door sedan with a Corvette engine.  Voom-voom.

[Bobm90]

My 54 Manhattan is still for sale, maybe the asking price is a bit high at 10,900. I really have to get rid of it and could take even a little less. This car is decent and could use some tinkering. It gets a lot of attention but no offers, runs great, has new brake shoes, tires and rebuilt transmission, I didn't get it a supercharger on it, it may have been removed by the dealer or never installed at the factory(special order?, no one can answer). I have more than what I am asking in it but can't seem to sell it, I would have to think twice before buying another "orphan car".

[Doc]

Here are two 54s, a Manhattan and a Late Special. We sold an Early Special  a couple of years ago.

[Carpenter]

What about the two 54s?  Yours?  For Sale?  Location?

[Doc]

Mine, owned for over two decades and not for sale. They attract much attention at car shows and are fun cars to drive.