Last Tagged In ’63: 1951 Nash Ambassador Custom
The first completely redesigned postwar Nash was given an extremely rounded shape as a result of extensive wind tunnel testing carried out to reduce aerodynamic drag. The result was the Airflyte models with a smooth, rounded shape and almost fully-enclosed wheels. They quickly earned the nickname “bathtub” Nash. A running example is for sale on Craigslist in Michigan City, Indiana for $2,995.
The sweeping silhouette of this ’51 Nash brings to mind some of the profiles that Mercedes and BMW are using on their new crossover – high sedan things. On its introduction in 1949, the Airflyte models had to look like something from another planet when compared to the automotive offerings before the war. Even today, they are handsome cars.
This 1951 Nash Ambassador Custom has plenty of surface corrosion, but there are no fully rusted-through areas visible in the photos. There are a few odd dents, but nothing that would indicate any serious damage to the body. The undercarriage is in remarkably good condition with traces of the original gray paint visible, but some of the steel suspension components are pitted. The brake lines are corroded and will need to be replaced.
The interior is in poor condition, but when the sunburned paint is taken into consideration, it is to be expected. The door fabrics are hanging in tatters and we can see the springs in the rear seat. The front seat is covered but it is likely just as bad. The ’51 Nashes didn’t have the way cool Uniscope instrument of the earlier models mounted on the steering column, instead reverting to a conventional instrument panel in the dashboard
Power is supplied by this overhead valve, 234 cubic inch straight six cylinder engine cranking out 112 horsepower. Less-upscale Ambassadors had to make do with a 176 cubic inch flathead six. In 1952, buyers could choose a GM-sourced Hydra-matic transmission or a standard three speed column-shifted unit. This Ambassador has the standard three-pedal setup. The seller states that the engine “runs good”, but he does not mention if can move (or stop) on its own. The seller is open to offers – what would you do with it?
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Comments
I absolutely love the styling of this car. It looks like there’s plenty of room for a 472/500 Cadillac engine under that hood too, at least front to back. Would there be enough room on the sides though? I’ve never seen one up close in person.
For once, I agree. A car like this could benefit from an upgrade, even though your suggestion would be the maximum upgrade. Any V8 and modern drive and brakes would do. While it does have an aerodynamic shape, the motor could never propel this car fast enough to actually benefit from the shape. Even if it did, the suspension and brakes would be horribly out of date, and downright dangerous. I happen to know what it’s like to go 80 mph in old tubs like this.( about it for this old gal) It’s tense. Resto-mod away.
There are other factors besides max horsepower available that determine the effects of aerodynamics. If you are driving at 50 mph in a 40 mph headwind ( the Nash will do it) are aerodynamics beneficial to fuel economy?
Aerodynamics for Naval Aviators is a good source to help answer that question. Or simply ask a cycle rider if a fairing helps. Or ride cross country on a naked bike. Ask the worldsfastest 50cc rider if aerodynamics helps.
Howard what would be more period correct engine upgrade for this Nash?
If 80mph is scary in any early 50’s car for you, then the car has: worn out steering, suspension, tires, shocks, and more.
Actually the room under the hood is really not for a V8. It is narrow and made for inline engines. I know a guy who put an Olds engine in one but you couldn’t change the spark plugs without drilling holes in the interior dust shield. They also need sway bars because going around corners you wallow out. I understand that sway bars were an option .
4 BT Cummins .
Actually it was the Statesman that came with the flathead six, an engine that debuted in the 1941 Nash “600” and, with displacement and engineering changes, was used by AMC through 1965. The Statesman was the same as the Ambassador from the cowl back. This was a practice that AMC used to differentiate the Ambassador through the end of its production in 1974 (excepting 1963-1964).
Other features carried forward from the postwar Ambassador/Statesman were torque-tube drive (through 1966), trunnion front suspension (through 1969) and two-piece rear axle shaft/hub assembly (through the end of AMC production).
62 Ambassador was on the same wheelbase and had the same length as the Classic as well.
You are correct, I had forgotten that!
Speaking of earlier models, the front clip on the ’61 Ambassador was pretty bizarre looking. It’s kind of surprising that the Company spent the money on the tooling for just one year.
Just the thing for turning into a B-movie generic cop car replica.
The fact that it’s a stick is a bonus, imho…
Hope it gets put back on the road, stock or otherwise.
I remember seeing these as cop cars in a number of old movies and TV shows. The 1950s “Superman” television program was particularly Nash-heavy.
The front clip on these cars always reminds me of the creature in the movie “Alien”.
Lois Lane’s Rambler was one everyone remembers for some reason…
I’ve always wanted to own a Generic Police Nash, but until I get a couple of big projects finished and can make some room in the garage, I may have to wait a bit longer. ;-)
Yes: they’re a scream to see in action shots in police drag.
First I have to lengthen my shop, huge car. Full trick chassis restomod. Ford v6 ecoboost with the plush interior from a Lincoln. Shaded silver paint job in the Chip Foose style. 1977 Lincoln mk V wheels.
It would be easier to fit seats (front and rear) from a late 90s Fleetwood. They fit the factory layout without need for cutting or reshaping the seats themselves.
Be prepared to put thousands of hours into prep work to get these laser straight if you plan to paint them a dark color…
“Trick chassis’ might be an issue. Nashes were unit body cars. Not sure an Ecoboost V6 would make much of an impression.
Another minor nit in the description, the GM Hydramatic transmission was first offered by Nash for 1950. Factory seat belts were also offered that year as an option which was a U.S. industry first.
1951 was the last year for these “bathtub” Nashes. The 1952 model year brought in the Pininfarina models, which were actually designed mainly by Nash’s own Edmund Anderson incorporating ideas from the Italian designer.
It should also be mentioned that while Nash did not originate unibody construction the company was an early adopter. This began with the ’41 Nash 600 and starting in 1949 all Nash models including the big Ambassador were unibody, a feature carried through to the end of AMC, excepting some Jeep models.
Also, that looks like a Metropolitan hardtop in the next bay!
It does indeed, AMC Guy. Good spotting, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from an American Motors fan!
In a cost-no-object fantasy world I would opt for the 1950 version since I like the eggcrate grille and the rounded taillights better. I would paint it dark blue metallic over light silver blue metallic, retain the Nash hubcaps and beauty rings, and go with wide whites. Inside I think it calls for period correct mousefur fabric and to retain the original reclining front seats.
As far as motive power the only engine choice is the GM Vortec inline 4.2L six. Smooth 275 horsepower and 90% of its torque peak at 1800 rpm. Polished up and detailed it would look right at home under that long hood.
Don’t know anything about suspension so I’m guessing S10 components might work, or maybe the ubiquitous Mustang II IFS.
Love these cars and the “Lois Lane” convertible.
The Statesman had the L-head six not the Ambassador. It had a shorter wheelbase as well.
This is the world’s ugliest car! The Pontiac Aztec, is a close second!
Thousands of Juke & Element owners are so relieved that you have passed judgement…
Needs a straight 6. BMW is an excellent choice. But perhaps an easier, cheaper way is a 300 Ford.
This car is so nice! Great potential if done correctly! Wish I could have bought it 20 years ago when I could still do welding and body work!
I am from Coolspring Township Michigan City Laporte County and know this car. It sat outside in weeds over its roof for at least 20 years on Wozniak Rd. When I was very young 45 or so years ago.