Adorable 1957 Nash Metropolitan - the Smart Car of the 1950s
Description
Here’s your chance to own the cutest icon of the 1950s - the Nash Metropolitan! America’s first compact car was designed to compete with the big three by offering something uniquely different. Designed in America, built in England, the Metropolitan proved to be popular in both countries.
This particular example has been well cared for, receiving many recent updates. The entire drivetrain has been rebuilt or inspected, including the suspension, steering components, brakes, engine, transmission, rear end, shocks, generator, starter, carburetor, radiator. Many components have been replaced, including a new wiring harness, voltage regulator, and many of the switches and lights.
The car presents reasonably well, but once you’re behind the wheel it’s true colors show. It starts easily, idles down quickly, and purrs like a sewing machine. Driving it down the road is a joy, with all the looks, smiles and waves. These cars were not known for their handling, but this example handles probably as well as or better than new, with every bushing, bearing and component replaced and upgraded. It moves through these gears well, and when it’s time to stop, the car reacts quickly and decisively, thanks to a new master cylinder, all new wheel cylinders, new lines, drums and shoes.
It isn’t a perfect car - there are several of minor, non-pressing weekend projects to occupy a car enthusiast. The shift linkage needs tightening, paintwork needs to be buffed, and a spot touched up on the rear. The speedometer reads incorrectly, and should be rebuilt. The radio is not installed, but bench tested fine. The heater switch needs to be replaced. None of these items should scare you off, though - it is a solid dependable car, just needs some loving to be 100%.
Spare parts won’t be an issue, as this car comes with a spare engine (complete with all components), transmission, suspension components, steering wheel, shifting linkage, radiator, rear axle, and other parts I’ve forgotten. If other parts are needed, there is an active community of enthusiasts and several good parts suppliers (we used metropolitan pit stop in Pennsylvania, but there are other good ones).
This is not a car that will take first place at a local car show, but it is a car that you and your family can drive and enjoy for many years with minimal investment. I believe it will be dependable (as much as any old car can be) and give you great joy.
I am ready to answer any questions you may have. You’re welcome to call my cell 607 three five one 0315.
I ask that a $500 deposit be made within 48 hours of auction end, and the balance paid in green cash upon pickup within two weeks of purchase. No refunds.
I do not need help selling this car.
If you buy the car, I have additional speed components available including a dual carb setup and a higher differential rear end. With these upgrades, the car should be peppy and be able to cruise at highway speeds. These are available for an additional $300 each.
I might be willing to deliver it to you within 3-4 hours of Trumansburg NY for a reasonable fee to cover my time and fuel.
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