If you’re in the market for a vintage vehicle, there are plenty of great options out there. On our sister site ClassicCars.com, you can find restored first-generation Ford Mustangs, thoughtfully modernized C3 Corvettes, and upgraded Jeep CJs. Our Pick of the Day is different from those classics in several major ways. You can find this 1951 Nash Airflyte Ambassador Custom 4-door Sedan listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Newberg, Oregon.
One thing that Mustangs, Vettes, and CJs have in common is that all of them were made by companies that still exist. Nash Motors is what many call an “orphan brand.” Started in 1916, it later became a division of the Nash-Kelvinator Corporation, which produced both automobiles and appliances. Nash-Kelvinator’s acquisition of Hudson in the mid-1950s led to the formation of the American Motors Corporation and, ultimately, the demise of Nash automobiles later that decade.
In 1949, several years before the merger that led to Nash’s demise, the company introduced its airplane-inspired Airflyte line of cars with unitized construction, distinctive profiles, and roomy interiors that could double as twin beds. For 1951, the Ambassador was restyled with an oval-shaped grille, Guard-Rail wraparound bumpers, and Sky-Flow rear fenders.
Another thing that makes this Nash unusual? According to the selling dealer, it’s “completely original and unrestored.” On top of that, it has only 19,289 miles on it—approximately 260 miles a year across three owners. The Cruiser Gray paint has a few blemishes, but the hue was on the bath tub-like body when this car left the Nash plant during the Truman administration. It’s a similar story with the chrome and brightwork.
Mileage isn’t everything when it comes to the condition of a car because the passage of time can really do a number on certain parts. Luckily, the years have been kind to this Ambassador’s interior. The pale gray diamond-pattern and green needle-point cloth would benefit from a cleaning, but overall wear is minimal. The dark gray carpeting is in great shape. Amazingly, the tan fabric headliner doesn’t appear to be sagging at all. The dealer adds that the “‘Weather Eye’ heater works, as does the AM radio.”
The Jetfire 234.8ci OHV inline-six is equally well preserved. The selling dealer reports that it starts easily and runs smoothly while routing its power through a three-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. Updates are limited to a fresh six-volt battery and a new exhaust system and muffler.
If you want to drive something different to your next local car club meet, this low-mileage, unrestored 1951 Nash Airflyte Ambassador Custom 4-door Sedan is it. But it’s not yours until you pay the $17,500 asking price.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
