1959 Nash Metropolitan Hard-Top Coupe

1959 Nash Metropolitan Hard-Top Coupe
Chassis no. E64069
Engine no. 15F-N-H5236
1,489cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
55bhp at 5,400rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Independent Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Desirable fourth-series hard-top coupe
*A fun classic for a day at the beach
*Charming color combination
*A car that receives smiles wherever it goes

THE NASH METROPOLITAN

Nash President George W. Mason was no stranger to transatlantic co-operation, teaming up with Donald Healey to produce the Nash-Healey sports car and with Austin, which assembled the Metropolitan at Longbridge for the American concern. Nash's factories were not configured to build cars of the Metropolitan's size; alas, the company had no suitable engines or transmissions either, so collaboration with a European manufacturer was Mason's preferred solution.

When Nash presented the NXI (Nash Experimental International) in 1950, the idea was to explore the opportunity for people to add a second car to their driveways. Market research supported the idea that there was a demand for a more economical mode of transportation, but it would have to be priced accordingly. Nash sought a foreign partner, teaming up with the UK's Austin Motor Company, who supplied the engine, transmission, and manufacturing facilities.

Tests of the day touted the high level of standard features, whimsical design, and fun-to-drive yet economical nature. Metropolitans were marketed under their own name and sold through Rambler dealerships beginning in 1958 after the demise of Nash and Hudson. Having enjoyed nearly a decade-long production run, sales slowed for 1961, and the Metropolitan was subsequently discontinued.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This delightful little Nash Metropolitan was obtained by the consigner in 2013 from a couple who had held long term ownership of the car beginning in 1972. Upon this transfer, it was decided to fully restore the vehicle so that it could be enjoyed to its full potential. Over the next two years much of the Nash was repaired or replaced. The exterior received spectacular Apple green paint with freshly refinished brightwork, and conclusively, this diminutively sized automobile has quite the substantial presence. Mechanically, the engine was rebuilt along with the suspension and brakes, among other components. Upon completion, the quality of the restoration was tested over a 1,500-mile trek back home between Moscow, Idaho and Tucson Arizona. The vehicle arrived successfully and has been garaged since.

A Metropolitan of this quality is sure to bring its next owner miles of entertainment and plenty of smiles. Now is the opportunity to get your hands on a fine example of a truly delightful automobile.