1961 Nash Metropolitan Series IV

Description

Owning a Mighty Met can be a lot of fun. In fact, this 1961 Nash Metropolitan Series IV went through a seven-year restoration that was a labor of love. It makes for a sharp two-tone classic with a detail-oriented style.

The Nash Metropolitan is far more than just an economy car. They were built with the best in big car style. This includes the continental kit, classic Nash covered wheel sides, and the distinct face from the Pinin Farina-inspired cars. And they also had some of the best details of the era where the side trim was used as a distinct dividing line for the two-tone paint. And speaking of this red and white, you can really see it was applied with care. This example was given a multi-year restoration that was completed in 2014. It has been driven a few times a month to keep everything moving, but the exceptional shine you see today tells you it has not been a road trip machine. And a crisply presented car like this means you get to appreciate the details, like the bright chrome bumpers, and the red wheel with whitewall tires that match the car. And a Series IV coupe like this is especially desirable for the little extras, like a proper trunk and the single-piece wraparound rear glass.

The white of the exterior returns inside, and now it's joined by a tasteful black for a timeless color combo. There's a clean look on the seats, door panels, headliner, and other fundamentals that remind you of the work and care that has gone into this car. Nash didn't want a small car to feel like a penalty box, and so they configured it well with a spacious front seat, big Smiths readout, and an airy feeling. There are also a few of the right upgrades here, like the front seatbelts and a grippy sports steering wheel. But overall, it remains a highly vintage atmosphere, right down to the AM radio that's still there for display.

The tidiness under the hood shows off the comprehensive restoration. For those who don't know the history of the Metropolitan, the engine bay is the dead giveaway. These were built by Austin in England. They know how to make small cars feel good on the road, and so the big secret to the Met was American styling with European power and handling. Austin's B-Series 1489 cc inline-four has a reputation for a rugged engine, and this well-respected example remains a strong-runner. Newer suspension components, a three-speed manual transmission, and a modern tread behind those classic whitewalls all come together for solid control out on the road.

The sale comes complete with the owner's manual, service manuals, build receipts, and restoration photos. Those who know the Met also know these last few years are quite rare. So if you want huge classic car distinction in a small package, call today!