Model year 1954 saw the introduction of the Nash Metropolitan, a true subcompact (its wheelbase was shorter than a VW Beetle) that was ahead of its time in some respects. It was unique as well, being the first car designed in America, but built in England, that positioned itself as a small, economical second car for city-dwelling families – especially women. In fact, the first spokesperson for the new Metropolitan was Evelyn Sempier, Miss America 1954. Nash also advertised in the top women’s magazines of the day including Women’s Wear Daily. Although many consider the colorful ’56 – ’62 Metropolitans with the two-toned bodies as the iconic Met, the first two model years had a solid body color with either a contrasting Mist Grey hardtop or a black or tan convertible top. Here’s a first-year Metropolitan with an upgraded engine that’s for sale here on eBay. It’s located in Glen Allen, Virginia with an asking price of $13,995.
When the Met was released on March 19, 1954, buyers had a choice of four colors: Spruce Green, Canyon Red, Croton Green, or the color of this Met, Caribbean Blue. In reviewing the photos, the paint is very presentable and it appears to be rust-free. The chrome and glass look good as does the Met’s trim, wheel covers, and the “Continental rear tire mount.” One thing I spotted is the one piece wraparound rear glass instead of the original 3-piece rear glass. The one-piece started with the 1959 model year. The only suggestion I’d make for making this Met look sharper is fitting the car in period-correct whitewall tires.
The interior of this Met has been restored and is in great shape. The metal dash is painted a matching Caribbean Blue and the full-width front seat is upholstered in a pleasing black-and-white gingham patterned cloth and white leather. The patterned cloth is carried over onto the two door panels and the rear “seat,” which was more of an upholstered shelf except for the smallest of children. The seat back is how you accessed the rear trunk, which wasn’t the most practical or convenient. There would be no exterior access of the trunk until the 1959 model.
Nash powered their first-year Metropolitans with what their sales brochure states “the world-famous Austin A-40 overhead valve engine delivering 42 horsepower and up to 40 miles to the gallon.” It was a proven, rugged 4-cylinder engine that was upgraded from a 1200 cc engine to a larger 1500 cc starting in the 1956 model year. At some point, this Met’s original engine was swapped out for the 1500 cc engine. Other upgrades listed include electronic ignition, a Weber carburetor conversion, Stellite valves and hardened valve seats, dual exhausts, and disc brakes on all four wheels. The seller says the engine runs nice and that it’s paired with a column shift manual transmission. So, what do you think? The seller states that it’s “been well-maintained, garage kept, and is smoke free.” Ever seen a first-year ’54 Metropolitan? I’ve only seen a handful.
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