Nash Metropolitan

A car aimed specifically at a female clientele. Especially in womens magazines, the Nash Metropolitan is heavily advertised.

A car specifically aimed at a female clientele. Especially in womens magazines, the Nash Metropolitan is heavily advertised. With its chrome grille, two tone paintwork and spare wheel on the back, it is a scaled down version of normal American cars. That is exactly what George W. Mason, the president of car manufacturer Nash, has in mind: he positions this Metropolitan as a small car for shopping or for everyday commuting. However, Nash does not have the production capacity to build such small cars and therefore seeks cooperation with European manufacturers. In 1952 an agreement is signed with Austin; the car will be built there and will largely be fitted with Austin technology, including the 1.2 liter A engine. It is the first time that an American car, intended for the American market, is built in Europe. From 1956 the car was also sold in Europe under the brand name Austin. Because of its attractive appearance, the Nash Metropolitan gains a certain cult status. Well known Metropolitan owners include the English Princess Margaret, singers Phil Collins and Elvis Presley, American TV host Jay Leno and actor Paul Newman, showing that the car is not only appealing to women.