Built by Austin Of England and marketed by Nash USA!
The American Nash-Kelvinator Corporation created some experimental models to test the American peoples reaction to smaller cars. In 1952 senior British Motor Corporation management met with Nash for informal discussion of business matters of topical interest.
Nash had a reputation for compact cars and wanted a smaller car but did not have development facilities required and were considering buying in mechanicals. Leonard Lord struck a deal to produce a car at Longbridge with narrower than usual track based on the Austin A40 engine and A30 suspension and available either as a convertible or as a closed saloon. Nash was keen on A40 engines etc. as they were already proven in the United States. BMC made the bodies at Castle Bromwich in premises that now is a Jaguar factory.
Approximately 93000 Metropolitan's were exported to the USA and Canada and in the late 1950's, a right hand drive model became available for the UK.
This car is adorable - you can't not fall in love with it - like having a wee pet - an interesting and unusual piece of automotive history.
ABOUT THIS CAR
Four Owners (Two long term 15 years ad 17 years) Column shift - Three speed synchromesh transmission 1498cc Austin motor This car has no difficulty in today’s traffic, and can cruise between 55 and 60 mph without any problems. A bench seat for two in the front, and a rudimentary parcel shelf that was claimed to be a rear seat. The Metropolitan was intended to be a basic car at a low price, but despite this, a heater, radio and cigarette lighter were all standard. Nowadays very collectible with just a handful left on both sides of the Atlantic. Nicely restored example. Odometer in Miles.
This is a quirky, charming car - best described as Minnie Mouse’s car. The Metropolitan intimidates no one. Among their enthusiastic owners, there seem to be more first-time restorers than with most any other car, including a surprising number of women–a great trend for the collector car movement. Not that it’s a chick's car. Men, drive Metropolitans as well, and they tell the world that you’re secure in your masculinity :)
Car will be sold with a twelve (12) month registration and fresh WOF if sold in New Zealand.
SHIPPING / TRANSPORT CAN BE ORGANISED ON BUYER'S BEHALF AT BUYERS COST.
Viewing Monday to Friday, BY APPOINTMENT only.
PLEASE READ: The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Classic Cars as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.
