Sleep Inside It! 1951 Nash Statesman Super Airflyte

• Seller: David B rill (Contact)
• Location: Middletown, Connecticut
• Mileage: 43,000 Shown
• Chassis #: CA594766
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 184 cui Flathead Inline-6
• Transmission: 3-Speed Manual

Some classics make sense immediately. Others require a few minutes of staring before you begin noticing all the unusual details. This 1951 Nash Statesman Super Airflyte definitely belongs in the latter category. Its enclosed wheels, aerodynamic body, flathead six, three-on-the-tree transmission, and front seats that fold into a bed make it unlike almost anything else likely to appear at your local cruise night. Better still, this one already runs and drives and is offered at a price that makes owning something genuinely unusual surprisingly attainable. Located in Middletown, Connecticut, this Statesman shows 43,000 miles, carries a clean title, and is listed on Barn Finds Classified with an asking price of $10,500.

The current owner has earned the nickname “The Foster Father of Orphan Cars” thanks to a collection that includes vehicles from departed brands such as Nash, Studebaker, AMC, and DeLorean. This particular Nash joined the collection as part of a package deal required to acquire another car. After several years, it is now ready to “fly the coop” and find a new caretaker.

Little is known about its earlier history. The widow who previously sold the cars did not have details about this one, although the seller believes it was restored at some point. The Seafoam Green paint remains very presentable and should respond well to a careful cut and buff. The photographs document various chips and imperfections, but the seller notes that many virtually disappear from about ten feet away.

The chrome also retains a good shine, although close inspection reveals some pitting and other age-related imperfections. This isn’t being represented as a freshly restored show car, but the photos show a Nash that still has plenty of visual presence. And presence is something the Airflyte has in abundance. Nash embraced aerodynamic styling more aggressively than most American manufacturers in this period. The partially enclosed wheels, rounded roof, smooth fenders, and flowing rear bodywork create a shape that looks almost as unconventional today as it must have in 1951.

The interior is believed to have been redone because its condition appears too good to be original, although it uses materials that maintain a stock appearance. There are a couple of small holes in the rear seat, a stain on the driver’s seat, and some lighter staining in the back. A thorough cleaning may significantly improve things.

One of the cabin’s most entertaining features is the fully reclining front seat arrangement. Nash marketed these cars toward traveling families, allowing occupants to recline the seats into a double bed. The idea was simple: drive all day, pull over for the night, sleep inside the car, and continue the journey the next morning. Try finding that feature in your new crossover.

Power comes from a 186 cubic-inch flathead inline-six connected to a three-speed column-shift manual transmission. Starting is a wonderfully period experience: turn the key, depress the clutch fully to activate the starter switch hidden behind the pedal, and the six-cylinder comes to life. The seller reports that the engine starts readily and idles smoothly while producing more than 60 PSI of oil pressure. It was allowed to idle for more than twenty minutes without exhibiting overheating, and the temperature gauge remained centered. The engine date code suggests it may be original to the car, although no documentation confirms whether it has ever been rebuilt. The 43,000 indicated miles may be genuine, but that figure is not documented.

The clutch reportedly engages firmly, and the three-speed shifts easily. During testing around the property, the seller was able to select all three gears, and the brakes are described as solid and effective. The car also uses a three-link, coil-sprung rear suspension, which contributes to the famously soft Nash ride.

An overdrive unit is fitted and was said to function, but it has not been verified because the car has not been driven on public roads. Several electrical items also require attention. The oil-pressure and temperature gauges work, while the fuel gauge is intermittent. The horn, lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers are currently inoperative. Mechanically, the current owner initially received the car as a non-runner. A replacement fuel filter, spark plugs, and six-volt voltage regulator were installed, fresh gasoline and fuel additive were added, and the Nash returned to life. The underside is another encouraging area. Nash used a Bonderite protective coating, and it appears to have done its job. The seller reports surface rust and areas where the coating has peeled, but no structural rot or unintended holes are noted.

For $10,500, you get a running and driving early-1950s American sedan with dramatic Airflyte styling, a flathead six, manual transmission, possible original low mileage, room for the whole family, and front seats that can turn the cabin into a bedroom. Sort the electrical gremlins, give the paint and interior a proper detailing, and take it to the next cruise night. Chances are good that you won’t have to worry about parking beside another one.