Nash Metropolitan

vs

Nash Healey

USA vs USA — 1951 vs 1954

Nash Metropolitan (1951)
Nash Healey (1954)
Specifications
Metropolitan 1500Healey Le Mans
Horsepower52 hp140 hp
Torque74 lb-ft220 lb-ft
Engine Size1,489 cc4,138 cc
0-60 mph19.0 sec11.0 sec
Top Speed75 mph117 mph
¼ Mile22.5 sec
Weight1,850 lbs2,900 lbs
Wheelbase2,159 mm2,667 mm
Length3,760 mm4,470 mm
Units Produced94,98690
Original MSRP$1,469$5,868
Value (Excellent)$28,000$150,000
Collectibility6/108/10
Rarity6/109/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1951 Nash Metropolitan 1500 offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Nash has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1951 Nash Metropolitan 1500 with the 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 140 hp compared to 52 hp, a 88-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nash Metropolitan uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,489 cc, while the Nash Healey relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 4,138 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans edges ahead at 11.0 seconds versus 19.0 seconds. The Nash Metropolitan carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1050 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Nash Metropolitan's 94,986 examples. On the collector market, the 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1951 Nash Metropolitan 1500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1954 Nash Healey Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.