My Life with a 1956 Nash Metropolitan: The Cutest Micro Car

There’s a certain charm about owning a classic car that defies description. But when it comes to my 1956 Nash Metropolitan, words like “cute” and “fun” are probably the most appropriate. As the proud owner of this timeless beauty, I feel a sense of joy that goes beyond mere transportation.

A Glimpse of History

The Nash Metropolitan has always been more than just a car. With its compact design and cheerful disposition, it represents a pivotal era in automotive history. In the post-war optimism of the 1950s, American families were searching for affordable, economic, and practical automobiles. The Nash Metropolitan answered the call with a unique blend of style and substance.

Unmistakable Charm

What truly sets the Metropolitan apart is its aesthetic. Its rounded curves and smiling front grille could make even the most stoic car enthusiast crack a grin. The two-tone paint scheme in Berkshire Green of my model, a vibrant turquoise blue paired with a classic white, turns heads wherever I go.

But don’t let its small size fool you; the Metropolitan is packed with personality. The snug interior and vintage detailing provide a retro experience that transports you back to a simpler time.

Driving the Dream

The driving experience of the Nash Metropolitan is something every classic car lover should experience. The 1.5-liter engine won’t win any races, but it’s zippy and responsive, providing a ride that’s both engaging and exciting.

Taking this micro car for a spin on winding country roads or along the scenic coast is a pure delight. But it’s not about speed with this classic; it’s about the joy of the drive. The wind rushing through the windows and the large, sturdy steering wheel in your hands offer a unique, thrilling sensation that’s unlike any other for a car this size. Though not a speed demon by any means, this super cute and fun vehicle captures the essence of a time when driving was about pleasure, not just getting from point A to point B.

A Conversation Starter

Everywhere I go with my Nash, it becomes an instant ice-breaker. People of all ages are drawn to it, and its cuteness is an undeniable conversation starter. I’ve had countless interactions with strangers who wanted to know more about the car, share their memories, or simply compliment its appearance. Event when doing photoshoots it attracts attention and I don’t mind at all and enjoy talking with folks about my Nash.

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Maintaining a Legend

Of course, owning a classic car like the Nash Metropolitan isn’t without its challenges. Parts can be hard to find, and regular maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly. But every wrench turned and every hour spent in the garage is a labor of love, a tribute to an era gone by. I am fortunate to have a great mechanic who keeps my Nash running.

Conclusion

Owning a 1956 Nash Metropolitan is not just about having a vehicle; it’s about preserving a piece of history, a cultural icon that embodies the fun-loving spirit of the ’50s. It’s about the joy of driving something that’s not merely a machine but a companion, a cute and quirky friend that brings smiles wherever it goes.

Every time I slide behind the wheel, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with this micro car. It’s more than transportation; it’s an experience, a piece of art, and a beloved member of my family. If you ever have the chance to see one or drive one, don’t miss it. The charm of the Nash Metropolitan is something truly special.

Grab this delightful Nash Metropolitan t-shirt, available in sizes small-4XL in our Etsy shop, along with a lovely Nash Metropolitan enamel pin. Enjoy the fun and charm of the Nash Metropolitan in your everyday style!

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Life is a journey, enjoy the ride in a 1956 Nash Metropolitan

I am so excited to share with you all the newest addition to our mid-century modern family, our 1956 Nash Metropolitan!! My hubby Gary and I are over the moon excited with this adorable micro car that couldn’t be more perfect for two people (and their cute puppy dog). The fabulous turquoise blue color of Berkshire green just screams let the good times roll

The story behind our Nash Metropolitan is quite endearing and it puts a smile on my face when I think about it. Our Metro came from Oregon where it was put on a truck and driven down to a well-known Nash Metropolitan restorer in southern California. It belonged to a husband and wife who were Nash Metropolitan enthusiasts and their grown children were selling it as it had sat out in the fields for years since their folks had grown older. Fun fact is that the Nash Metropolitan is also known as the “clown car” because it looks so zany and small and their parents had actually attended the local clown college and drove around in their Metro’s dressed as clowns. Isn’t that wild!! It must have been a real hoot to see them!! The mom even had a convertible Nash Metropolitan for years and her husband purchased the hardtop for her but she never really drove it because she enjoyed the convertible so much. 

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A Pinup Girls Classic 1956 Nash Metropolitan

1956 Nash Metropolitan Hardtop Berkshire Green

1956 Nash Metropolitan Hardtop Berkshire Green

It has been an incredible week, I will do a blog post shortly on all the fabulous things going on but here is one of the highlights – we got our 1956 Nash Metropolitan!! My hubby Gary and I are over the moon excited and it has taken a lot of restoration to get it to this point with still some  to go and we’ll write about it all on the blog. Gary really rescued this cutie and gave it a second chance for a new life with us!! Here is a pic of our Nash with our Bichon Frise puppy dog Luna guarding it 🙂 This is the perfect Pinup Girl car!! Stay tuned for lots and lots of pics!!
Here’s some information from Wikipedia on the Nash and you can read more here on their Nash Metropolitan page.

The Nash Metropolitan is an automobile that was sold from 1953 to 1961. Nash was positioning this new product for the emerging postwar market for “personal use” autos.These specific use vehicles were as a second car for women or an economical commuter car. On October 5, 1952, they announced that they had selected the Austin Motor Company (by then part of BMC) and Fisher & Ludlow (which also became part of BMC in September 1953, later operating under the name Pressed Steel Fisher), both English companies based in Birmingham, England and vicinity. Fisher & Ludlow would produce the bodywork, while the mechanicals would be provided, as well as final assembly undertaken, by the Austin Motor Company.

In May 1954, Nash-Kelvinator Corporation announced that it had merged with the Hudson Motor Company to form American Motors Corporation (AMC). Thus by August 1954, Metropolitans also became available from Hudson dealers. These Hudson Metropolitans carried a Hudson grille badge, hubcaps incorporating an “M” logo, a “bulls-eye” horn button design, and a plain spare wheel cover. The MSRP for Series III models was $1,527 (Hardtop) in Berkshire Green.

The Nash possesses an ageless, cuddly quality that has made it a perennial favorite of car lovers and car agnostics alike.

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