With the American economy thriving during the 1950s, two-car households became more common. While some people chose to park a couple of larger vehicles in their driveways, others decided that something small was the obvious choice. It was against this backdrop that the Metropolitan emerged. It was considered tiny by the standards of the day but was ideal as a daily commuter or a shopping trolley. This 1957 example is a two-owner vehicle that presents nicely. It runs and drives well, with the seller indicating that its odometer shows 64,000 miles. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this pint-sized gem listed here on Craigslist in Fredonia, New York. You could drive it away once you hand the seller $13,200. However, since it appears they will consider offers, there is a chance that someone could get it for less.
The Metropolitan first appeared on the market for the 1954 model year. Produced by Austin in England, it wore both Hudson and Nash badges before receiving standalone status in 1957. Our feature car emerged in that year, wearing contrasting Berkshire Green and Frost White paint. Buyers could initially only order a Metropolitan in single colors, but a 1955 facelift that added a stainless molding along the sides allowed the introduction of two-tone combinations. This little “Metro” is a two-owner classic that underwent restoration years ago. It has been garage-kept throughout its life, helping to explain the lack of deterioration since. The paint holds a nice shine, although an in-person inspection will probably reveal flaws and imperfections. The panels are straight, and this little classic is rust-free. The glass and trim look excellent, and the standard rear-mounted spare gives the car a classy look.
The Series III update that was introduced in 1955 dramatically changed the Metropolitan’s interior. Previously body-colored, the painted dash now wore Black, which I have never viewed as a positive change. This car features the “Houndstooth” Black and White cloth seat covers, with the remaining upholstered surfaces wearing vinyl in the same combination. The floors are covered in carpet that compliments the exterior Green paint shade. The seller indicates that they recently refreshed the interior by replacing the carpet and seatcovers. The limited shots make it hard to assess the overall appearance, but there are no glaring problems or imperfections. One of the biggest criticisms leveled against the Metropolitan was the lack of a decklid. Access to the trunk was via the back seat until the Series IV appeared in 1959. It negatively impacted the car as a grocery-getter and was why the spare tire was mounted externally. However, people seemed willing to compromise because the Metropolitan’s sticker price was very low.
Initially launched with a 1,197cc four from the Austin A40 under the hood, the Metropolitan received a capacity upgrade to the 1,489cc BMC B-Series four in 1957. The original engine delivered around 42hp, but the B-Series lifted that figure by 10hp. The ponies were fed to the back wheels via a three-speed manual, with the company choosing a column shifter to improve interior versatility. The Metropolitan was not a fast car, struggling to top 70mph on the open road. However, their minute dimensions and excellent fuel economy figures by the standards of the day made them ideal as commuter options. This 1957 example is in excellent condition. It runs and drives well, ready for weekend adventures with its new owner behind the wheel.
I have always harbored a soft spot for the Metropolitan, and it is a feeling that is hard to quantify. They aren’t fast, powerful, or particularly elegant. However, there is simply something engaging about the styling that makes me want to take one home. This 1957 example would be an excellent candidate for those who share my feelings. It isn’t perfect, but its known history and solid nature make it a strong contender. Have you ever owned a Metropolitan? If so, did you enjoy it enough to consider a repeat performance?
Every time I see one of thee, it brings a smile to my face. At 6’4″ though, I don’t think that I’d be comfortable driving one, AND I like to shift my gears from the floor!! :-)
My daughter bought a used Chevy Spark recently, kindred spirit to this car, especially when you compare it to all the towering SUVs on the road. Only now you get AC, PB, PS, Bluetooth radio and Amazon Car Play. Still has crank windows though. Cute cars sell. I always thought the Metropolitan looked like a bathtub turned upside down. Would love to drive one one time. It would make a great city car.
I have a ’54 Metropolitan… I’m also 6-2, 205 and I fit with plenty of leg and head room, which is kind of shocking if you’ve never sat in one.
When I was a teenager, my mom said this would be much better than that ‘54 Corvette I was interested in!
ˆI have always wanted one…not as nice as this because I’d love to add some performance parts to the motor it shares with many UK cars including,I believe the MGA.I’d love to lower it just a tad and ,basically, make it a fun car for the #breakfastclubrally.I drive the rally most months but have never seen a Metro there. Thinking a couple of spotlights upfront, maybe mudflaps and a Pegasus on the fenders..hmmm
A lot of school-teachers drove these when they were new. And I once knew someone in the St. Louis area who had a veritable FLEET of them, various years. They were like a miniaturised Nash Rambler, tiny, but irresistibly cute.
A lot of school-teachers drove these when they were new. And I once knew someone in the St. Louis area who had a veritable FLEET of them, various years. They were like a miniaturised Nash Rambler or Ramble American, tiny, but irresistibly cute.
I like these old ones………without even an opening trunk lid. This one looks pretty well sorted. I’m not up on the current market but the price seems reasonable………..maybe with some wiggle room?
What year did they offer or start putting a trunk and operable trunk lid on these?
In what year did these Metropolitans have trunks with trunk lids?
1959 was the first year for the exterior opening trunk lid and vent windows. Before that the trunk access was thru the back seat.
I have an engine to fit that car,
As mentioned in the writeup, Trunk lids were added in 1959 Series IV Mets.
Drove a black-n-white 1961 Met as a daily in the 1980s. Fun enough and easy to work with but after the 2nd Valve job was needed I gave her up. Probly my own fault for pushing her all over northern CA, up-n-down the foothills, 70mph freeways etc amidst hot dry summers. Probly not at-all what her cool-weather flatland british designers had envisioned. But the B-series Cylinder Head design didn’t help with its 2 side-by-side Exhaust Valves right in the center. Sortof handled like wet noodle around turns, what with it narrow wheels track and no front anti-sway Bar or anything..