USA vs USA — 1951 vs 1954
| Metropolitan 1500 | Metropolitan | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 52 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 74 lb-ft | 65 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,489 cc | 1,200 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.0 sec | 22.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 75 mph | 70 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 22.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,850 lbs | 1,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,159 mm | 2,159 mm |
| Length | 3,760 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 94,986 | 13,095 |
| Original MSRP | $1,469 | $1,445 |
| Value (Excellent) | $28,000 | $28,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1951 Nash Metropolitan 1500 excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1954 Nash Metropolitan stands out for greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Nash Metropolitan from 1951 to 1954 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Nash. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1951 Nash Metropolitan 1500 producing 52 hp and the 1954 Nash Metropolitan delivering 42 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nash Metropolitan uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,489 cc, while the Nash Metropolitan relies on a I4 OHV with 1,200 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1951 Nash Metropolitan 1500 edges ahead at 19.0 seconds versus 22.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13,095 units built, the 1954 Nash Metropolitan is considerably scarcer than the Nash Metropolitan's 94,986 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.