Ardent Manhattan Mk.2
1965 - 1974
1965 Ardent Manhattan L in Pure White
Further development of the A7 platform continued almost immediately after the release of the first Manhattan models. The Ardent-Townsend merger had put both companies behind the game in the upscale markets. Warren Cole was set loose to head up the project. At hand was significant upgrading of interior packaging, as well as updated styling.
The chassis was actually developed in tandem with the Chesapeake, taking the existing pan and platform, and giving it more strength. This increased weight, but for the luxury-oriented model, that was of little concern.
Power was still provided at launch by a 333 cubic inch Toledo Iron Eight, but the old 2 barrel carb was replaced with a 4 barrel version. Power was up to 206 horses in this iteration. Sufficient, but by no means scorching. Ardent’s A32B ShiftGuard 3-speed automatic was standard on all Manhattan models, as well as the derivative Townsend Toulouse. Starting in 1967, the small block Toledo was replaced by a new big block. The base L version got the 404ci, with the S getting the 444ci version.
The level of creature comforts increased over the previous iteration. Power windows were now standard on all trims, and power output for the radio increased to 25 watts. A new intermittent windshield wiper system was installed for the first time. Under-carpet sound deadening was thickened slightly as well. Premium cloth-faced seats came with the L trim, with the S trim continuing on with full leather.
1965 Ardent Manhattan S in Navy Blue with Glacier Ice roof
Trim pricing in 1965:
Manhattan L, MSRP $3699
Manhattan S, MSRP $4259
Notable options:
Air Conditioning ($50, Standard on S)
Metallic paint ($35)
Two-tone paint ($40, S only)
Available colors:
Pure White
Ink Black
Flame Red
Lemon Creme
Caribbean Blue
Dark Sandstone
Dusk Rose
Navy Blue
Pewter Silver
Copper Cream Metallic (Premium)
Aquamarine Metallic (Premium)
Fuschia Metallic (Premium)
Glacier Ice (Premium)
Cobalt Metallic (Premium)
Champagne Metallic (Premium)