1961 Nash Metropolitan

Description

Its stature makes the subcompacts of today look huge by comparison and its look is so unique it seems both futuristic and conservative at the same time. This 1961 Nash Metropolitan represents a singular car model that successfully merged marketing and engineering efforts as very few others had done before. It was the Smart Car of its time and its allure has drawn celebrities from Elvis Presley to Steve Jobs behind the wheel.

Sporting a wheelbase markedly smaller than even a VW Beetle, the Metropolitan doesn't even bear a passing resemblance to anything else on the road. It never did, and of course, it never will. In an era where expansive cars ruled the highways wearing tail fins like a badge of honor, Nash took an entirely different approach and created an ultra-compact with a look so conservative it actually seems just the opposite. Its unusual size was a strong selling point, as it was designed from the outset to be "the 2nd Car in a 2 Car Family" and publications from Car Life to Popular Mechanics raved about its utility and ability to easily slip into a parking space far too small for anything else while referring to it as "a big car in miniature." Decked out in its two-tone teal and white paint job, this 1961 ably captures that sense of novelty, and it sports bumpers both fore and aft that are in very nice shape, as well as chrome and bright work that represent well over its singular form. With trim running the length of its sides that approximates the shape of a Dow Jones stock ticker, a compact front grille positioned unusually high over its front bumper and monogrammed wheels, it exudes whimsical fun. You just can't help but smile when you see it.

While largely still in its original configuration, the interior has received some updates to its look over the years and sports a black and white vinyl split bench seat with a uniquely appealing pattern over its surface that's bracketed by door panels carrying tiger stripe accents. The stock dash area has come through the years impressively - its painted surface looks great, the single dial instrument cluster is easily readable and every control switch sits securely in its intended location. In spite of the Metropolitan's small stature, you'll find a functional backseat positioned between its rear wheel wells, and behind that you'll even find a storage area with a prop-up lid that will actually accommodate a couple of suitcases or some groceries. The charm on display inside is undeniable.

Raise the hood and you'll find a compact inline 4-cylinder engine nestled into the compartment, with plenty of room surrounding it. One of the Metropolitan's widely recognized benefits at the time of its release was just how easy it was to work on, and with the surprising amount of access on the sides of the engine, you can easily see that to be the case. This classic starts up without issue and is running smoothly - with under 1800lbs to move, the 4-banger under the hood pairs with a 3-speed manual transmission to bring it up to highway speeds. though in keeping with the original intent for the model, it's more of a city cruiser, able to wedge into the smallest of parking spots and sure to draw envious glances as it does so. Drum brakes at all four corners bring this revolutionary, lightweight car to a prompt stop as needed as it cruises the asphalt on its set of 13" stock wheels outfitted with Kelly tires.

This 1961 Nash Metropolitan holds a unique place in automotive history and would be a great addition to any enthusiast's collection. Call today!