1959 Rambler Metropolitan Series IV

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Huntsville, Alabama — or “Rocket City,” as we know it — is home to NASA rocket-propulsion research and development. Nothing quite encapsulates the launch and excitement of the region as this out-of-world collection of cars including movie cars and tributes, desirable classics, and a rocket truck itself. 3… 2… 1… These cars are ready for blastoff, and all will be launched to new homes and garages as all lots are presented with NO RESERVE.    *  *  *     “World’s smartest smaller car.” In the booming American economy following World War II, a new niche opened in the automotive world for a second family car — one that could serve as a smaller, around-town runabout, perfect for running a few errands. American Motors led the way with its popular compact Rambler, but it had something even smaller to offer, the Metropolitan. 

American Motors’ predecessor, Nash, began developing a sub-compact auto in the late 1940s. To save money, it contracted with British manufacturers Fisher & Ludlow, Ltd. to produce the bodies and Austin Motor Company, Ltd. to supply the suspension components, Austin’s OHV four-cylinder engine with three-speed manual transmission, and final assembly. 

This Series IV model benefited from a number of improvements, including an actual trunk lid so owners no longer had to pull down the small rear seat back and reach into the storage compartment. Larger 5.60-13 tubeless tires and vent windows offering added ventilation were new, too. And there was a bump in power up to 55 horsepower with a larger displacement. The marketplace approved: The subcompact sold a record 22,209 in 1959. 

Highlights 

• Offered from The Rocket City Collection  

• Fresh Frost White (914) and Mardi Gras Red (913) paint 

• Austin B-series 1500cc four-cylinder engine 

• Column-shift three-speed manual transmission 

• Atlas Sigma E P165/80R13 wide whitewall tires 

• Correct Metropolitan logo hubcaps 

Features 

• Spare wheel with cover 

• Smith’s interior heater 

• Smith’s gauges 

• Vent windows 

• External trunk decklid 

Known Imperfections 

• Glue on lower passenger side (interior) of windshield  

• Paint imperfections on paint near grille (overspray)  

• Scratches on front bumper chrome  

• Chip in chrome just below grille  

• Nash grille badge has multiple spider cracks  

• Tiny rust spots on roof above driver’s door  

• Paint imperfections and a small crack on rear of driver’s door frame  

• Paint chipped on driver’s door frame  

• Lower portion of driver’s seat is scuffed  

• Pitting on rear bumper guards 

Included 

• Rear-mounted spare tire with cover 

Ownership History 

This 1959 Rambler Metropolitan Series IV joined The Rocket City Collection in 2024.

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Ramsey Potts  Phone: 912.508.4096  email: rpotts@hagerty.com