You’ve never heard of an Allstate car? Well, I hadn’t either until I was standing in front of one at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Fall auction. This 1953 Allstate Custom Coupe is a curious piece of automotive history, representing a brief period when Sears ventured into the car business.
In response to surging demand for new cars as part of the postwar economic boom, companies like Crosley were cranking out small, basic cars at an affordable price. Not wanting to miss out, the Sears company partnered with the struggling Kaiser-Frazer corporation to offer a mail-order car. Sold exclusively through the Sears & Roebuck catalog in 1952 and 1953, only 797 examples of this unique vehicle were ever produced. The original price was $1,589, equivalent to about $18,775 in 2024.
Despite being 7 decades old, this Allstate has been transformed into a stunning custom creation, and recently sold at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Fall collector car auction for $17,270. Let’s explore what makes this car so special.
The Original Allstate: A Catalog Car with Character
In the early 1950s, Sears sought to extend its influence into the automotive world by offering a car that could be purchased alongside home appliances and garden tools. The Allstate was essentially a rebadged Henry J, tailored for Sears customers with unique branding and slight modifications. While it wasn’t a high-performance vehicle, it stood out for its affordability, becoming a rare collectible over time.
Modern Performance: A Custom Transformation
This particular 1953 Allstate Custom Coupe has undergone a complete transformation, blending its vintage design with modern performance. Under the hood is a Ford 302 V8 engine equipped with an HEI distributor, headers, and an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor. This powerful setup delivers far more punch than the original Henry J, which was offered with a 68 horsepower inline-4 engine and later, an 80 horsepower inline-6 engine. Paired with a 3-speed C4 automatic transmission and a Hurst Pro-Matic 2 shifter, the car offers smooth and spirited driving.
The drivetrain has been upgraded with a Ford 8-inch rear end featuring 3.55 rear gears and posi-traction, ensuring excellent traction and acceleration. To keep things cool, an aluminum radiator and electric fan have been installed, making the car reliable even under demanding conditions.
Unique Restoration: A Toyota Frame
In a prior restoration, this Allstate has been swapped onto a 1977 Toyota pickup frame, which is certainly more durable than the car’s original frame which was designed to be manufactured as cheaply as possible. The frame’s manual rack and pinion steering improves handling, while the modernized suspension offers a smoother ride compared to the original chassis.
Inside, Toyota front bucket seats with fold-up armrests provide comfort and functionality, complemented by a custom center console, gauges, and a Woodward speedometer. These updates enhance the driving experience while maintaining a nod to the car’s vintage roots.
Distinctive Features: A Blend of Old and New
This custom coupe boasts several distinctive features that set it apart from other restomods. An original hood ornament that lights up with the headlamps adds a touch of whimsy, harkening back to the playful design cues of the 1950s. Though not currently installed, the listing description says that the car includes an original Allstate under-dash air conditioning unit, a rare and nostalgic accessory.
While the front bumper has been removed for a sleeker look, it is included with the car according to the listing.
A Collector’s Dream
With only 797 Allstate Coupes ever produced, finding one is a rarity. Discovering one that has been so carefully customized and modernized is even more remarkable. The $17,270 sale price at the Barrett-Jackson auction reflects the unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and performance this car offers.
Final Thoughts
The 1953 Allstate Custom Coupe is a compelling example of how vintage vehicles can be reimagined for the modern era. By combining a rare piece of automotive history with contemporary upgrades, this custom creation preserves the spirit of the original while delivering daily-driver reliability. Whether you are a fan of unique collectibles or innovative restomods, this Allstate is a true standout.
