USA vs USA — 1953 vs 1952
| Dragon Sedan | Capri Custom Coupe V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 205 hp |
| Torque | 200 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,707 cc | 5,196 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.5 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 108 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 4,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,073 mm | 3,124 mm |
| Length | 5,410 mm | 5,461 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,277 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,924 | $3,549 |
| Value (Excellent) | $95,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 5/10 |
The 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Kaiser Dragon Sedan counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1953 Kaiser Dragon Sedan and 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8 stand as two of the most notable Luxury cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 205 hp compared to 118 hp, a 87-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Kaiser Dragon uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 3,707 cc, while the Lincoln Capri relies on a V8 OHV (Lincoln Y-block 317) with 5,196 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8 edges ahead at 12.0 seconds versus 14.5 seconds. The Kaiser Dragon carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 800 lbs lighter. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.