The Nash Metropolitan, produced from 1953 to 1967, stands as a testament to innovative automotive engineering in the American market. As one of the first compact cars in the United States, its lightweight design and economical engineering introduced novel parts and systems that left a lasting mark on automotive history. For enthusiasts and restorers, the Metropolitan’s unique components offer both a challenge and a reward in preservation.
Engine & Ignition System
The Metropolitan’s inline-four engine, derived from the Renault 4CV but adapted for the U.S. market, featured a 1.1-liter (1,086 cc) displacement, producing 65 horsepower. This water-cooled motor, mounted at the front, paired with a manual or optional automatic transmission, showcased simplicity and efficiency. Key engine components included a single-barrel Delco carburetor, a distributor with contact points, and a timing mechanism requiring periodic adjustment. Owners often face challenges with ignition systems—aging points, condensers, and distributor caps—that demand meticulous restoration or replacement.
Transmission & Drive Train
The Metro could be equipped with a 3-speed manual gearbox or the Hydra-Matic 205 automatic transmission, a three-speed automatic used across several AMC vehicles. Both systems utilized a column-mounted shifter, a nod to mid-century design aesthetics. Transmission drive shafts and mounts were engineered to maintain the car’s low weight, though age often leads to worn bushings and degraded bearing surfaces, necessitating careful servicing.
Suspension & Steering
To balance agility and comfort, the Metropolitan employed coil springs at the front paired with a rear leaf-spring setup. This setup, combined with a torsion bar front suspension, provided a jittery but brisk ride. Steering was mechanical, with a manually adjusted rack-and-pinion system. Upgraded shocks and well-maintained springs are crucial for preserving the car’s handling characteristics.
Body & Exterior Components
The Metropolitan’s split front grille, adorned with a Chevrolet-inspired emblem, became an iconic design element. Its round, isolated headlamps paired with integrated turn signals on fenders added a distinctive flair. Exterior trim was metal-rimmed with chrome details, and hubcaps lacked the common center cap, reflecting the era’s styling. Bumpers were two-piece, press-on assemblies, often subject to dents and corrosion over time.
Interior Features
Inside, the Metro featured a minimalist cabin with a forward-tilting steering column, a rarity that competed with pedal starters. The dashboard housed analog gauges, including a British mph/kph speedometer, adding a touch of Americana flair. Seats constructed from rolled aluminum channels offered retro charm, while removable designs simplified maintenance. However, rust and degraded foam padding remain common challenges for restorers.
Electrical Systems & Durability
Early models used a 6-volt electrical system with generators, transitioning to 12-volt alternators in later years. Wiring harness decay, a frequent issue in vintage cars, affects functionality of lights, wipers, and starters. Spares like voltage regulators and circuit breakers are essential for preserving the vehicle’s reliability.
Braking System
Originally equipped with four-wheel drum brakes, some later variants introduced power brakes in 1962. Fusible links in the brake system could be replaced without overhauling the entire unit, highlighting the car’s maintenance-friendly design. However, rusted brake shoes and sagging springs are frequent issues requiring professional attention.
Modern Part Sourcing
Today, Metro parts are available through reproduction manufacturers like Year One and American Autowire, or via NOS (new old stock) vendors. Enthusiasts often scour salvage yards or online marketplaces for original components, reflecting the car’s enduring cult following.
The Nash Metropolitan, though modest in power, exemplifies mid-century ingenuity. Its parts, once innovative for their compact design, now offer a tangible connection to automotive history. For collectors, preserving these vehicles isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a celebration of engineering that defied its era, proving that big ideas come in small packages.
