1958 was a year for records. A new world jet speed record was established by Captain Walter Irwin (1404.19 mph), an underwater endurance record was set by the atomic submarine the U.S.S. Seawolf (60 days) and Yogi Berra, the New York Yankees catcher, played in his 10th World Series (tying Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio). In the automotive world, American Motors, which was formed through the merger of the Hudson and Nash motor companies, was selling its Metropolitan with much success overseas. Indeed, the Metropolitan was first marketed under both the Nash and Hudson names. After the formation of American Motors, it became a seperate make. Perhaps America's first subcompact car, the spunky Metropolitan had a large Austin A50 engine that produced 90 horsepower and could reach speeds of 78 mph. Its two-toned finish coupled Snowberry White with Carribbean Green, Sunburst Yellow and Coral red. The "Continental kit" included a spare tyre finished in grey with the hubcaps matching the body colour. Metropolitans continued in full production until 1960 and, for the next few years, they were produced sporadically. Delightful to look at and fun to drive, the 1958 Metropolitan Nash remained a favourite among automobile enthusiasts. Now, the Convertible is reproduced in an exciting die-cast replica - with a two-tone finish that combines the exotic colour of the Carribbean on Snowberry White.

Original sticker price: $1,527
Production quantity: 13,128 (total production including convertible and hardtop)

Fast Facts:
• American Motors claimed three-passenger capacity for the front seat.
• Models without outside access to the trunk cost $47 less.
• A fuel economy test rated the Metropolitan at 41,57 miles per gallon at an average speed of 34.83 mph.

(1997)

Scale: 1:43