At a time in automotive history when American manufacturers were consistently arguing that bigger is better, Nash dared to be different. After creating the well-received NXI, or Nash Experimental International concept, the company came to believe that a small, efficient car could be successful among the sea of large cars being offered by the Big Three: Chrysler, Ford, and GM. Accordingly, in 1953, they put the redeveloped NXI concept into production. Marketed beginning in 1954 as the Metropolitan, it would be produced by Nash and its successor, American Motors, for eight years, and was one of the first small automobiles to find widespread success in the United States, by virtue of its fine appointments and appealing styling. Even today, a Metropolitan is almost always the crowd favorite in even the most diverse and valuable collection.

The Metropolitan 1500 Convertible offered here received a careful, multi-year, rotisserie restoration by the present enthusiast owner, who prides himself in doing much of his own work, including mechanical rebuilding, welding, bodywork, and painting to the highest standards. Its livery took inspiration from one of the best-known die-cast 1:24 scale Franklin Mint Precision Models of a “Met,” the “Fire Chief’s Custom,” showing the car in the livery of a fire chief’s official vehicle. Being mainly a collector and restorer of vintage fire equipment, this appealed to the consignor.

Accordingly, this car was finished to closely match the model in bright red and white, with all new glass, correct vinyl and houndstooth cloth interior, and an internally modernized radio with Bluetooth connectivity. Gold “Metro Fire” lettering on both doors and a red emergency light, siren, and Grover air horn finish off the ensemble. “Everything works, and is very loud,” the consignor notes. The engine, suspension, and drivetrain were rebuilt with front and rear sway bars added, while the engine was fitted with a new Metropolitan Pit Stop Weber carburetor, the consignor says. The uninstalled original carburetor and air cleaner accompany the car, along with rear fender skirts.

The result is—even in the cute-as-a-button world of Metropolitans—thoroughly charming and full of character. It is likely to be the most eye-catching automobile in its new owner’s stable, drawing attention away from even a Duesenberg or Ferrari alongside it—and a surefire hit at local shows, parades, and festivals.