Lot 168

St. John's 2012

1932 Nash Series 980 Convertible Victoria

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$63,250 USD | Sold

United States | Plymouth, Michigan

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Chassis No.
B61876
Engine No.
B74495

94 hp, 240 cu. in. twin-ignition OHV straight eight engine, three-speed sliding gear transmission, semi-floating rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs in the front and rear, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 121"

• Handsome Victoria body style fitted with accessory trunk

• Built in limited numbers when new, with few survivors today

Charles W. Nash ran away from home when he was twelve, eventually becoming the fastest cushion stuffer at the Flint Road Cart Company, owned by William C. Durant and Dallas Dort, in the early 1890s. By 1895, he was managing the company; by 1910, he was heading up the Buick Division; and by 1912, he was president of General Motors. His rags-to-riches story ended like many others, with his departure from General Motors following a policy dispute with Billy Durant. On July 29, 1916, Nash Motors Company, of Kenosha, Wisconsin, was born.

The 1932 Series 980 competed with the Buick 60 Series in terms of price and power. The Nash, however, weighed 600 pounds less, at 3,275 pounds, giving it better acceleration and handling than its competitor. The year 1932 was tough for most manufacturers, including Charles’ namesake. Remarkably, Nash was the only car company other than GM to turn a profit for the year, earning $1.3 million, or six times that of GM!

The Nash was known for outstanding performance, quality materials, and solid assembly, and this example is no exception. It has been restored in the attractive combination of Dark Green with Black fenders complemented by pale green accents and coachlining, along with whitewall tires on Apple Green wheels. A brown leather interior and tan cloth Victoria roof complete the ensemble. Dual side-mount spare tires are fitted with matching tan cloth covers emblazoned with the Nash emblem, just like those on the wire wheel centers. In addition, the car is fitted with a body-colored accessory trunk. The car shows little use and good care since its restoration. Thanks to limited production and the likelihood of few survivors, this car will certainly be the hit of local shows and events.