1949 Frazer Manhattan 4-Door Sedan
2021.0001.0002, Savoy Collection
Engine: 226 cu. in. (3.7L) Cast-iron block, L-head, I-6
Output: 112 HP @ 3,600 RPM
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 123 in.
Overall Length: 207 in.
Weight: 3,391 lbs.
Top Speed: 85 MPH
No. Produced: 9,950
Original Price: $2,595
Manufacturer: Kaiser-Frazer
The Frazer Manhattan applied technical advances developed during World War II, and it incorporated postwar styling cues, making the Manhattan a genuine postwar vehicle. However, after a strong styling start in 1946 with the debut of the “Darrin” sports car, Kaiser-Frazer cars stayed almost unchanged. In 1949 the main design upgrades included moving the car’s crest on the hood lower, just above the new massive, egg-crate grille design, and the Frazer name.
The Manhattan model now included a four-door sedan and a four-door convertible sedan. Body side trim and molding were restyled. The convertible came standard with dual-trim molded fender skirts. Customers longed for a major upgrade, and their disappointment was evident. Sales in 1949 were half those of 1948. Henry Kaiser and Joseph Frazer’s business and personal relationships were unstable from the company’s beginning. The pair split in 1949 and the Manhattan bore Frazer’s name alone.
Highlights
● Kaiser-Frazer vehicles were manufactured at Willow Run Plant, in Michigan, which originally functioned as an assembly plant for B-24s Liberator bombers.