Nash Motors was one of the more unusual “orphan” automotive brands from the early 1950s. Nash, which had merged with Kelvinator (an appliance company famous for refrigerators), was known for early innovations, including a heating and ventilation system partly inspired by Kelvinator’s experience with refrigeration. There was also the early use of seat belts and reclining front seats, which appeared in the ground-breaking ultra-aerodynamic Nash Airflyte. An extraordinary 1951 custom example of the Airflyte is now listed on eBay - opens in new window or tab..
With enclosed wheel wells front and rear, a curved windshield, and a concealed fuel-filler, the Airflyte was a smooth shoebox that resembled little else on the road. The sedan edition was known as the upside-down bathtub. The Airflyte also was available as a coupe and wagon, as seen in the example now listed on eBay.
The 1951 Nash Airflyte is far from your typical classic. You’ll immediately notice the radical paint job, modern rims, and dropped ride-height. Take a closer look and you’ll see the panoply of details that set the wagon apart from other Nash examples.
This Airflyte has made extensive use of replacement and custom body panels inside and out. The interior is quite clearly from the modern age—and maybe somewhat extravagant when it comes to the flames decorating the dash. Hoist the Nash up on a lift and you’ll find a chassis clean enough to eat off of, along with a true dual-exhaust system that suggests there might not be anything left that’s stock about this little wagon.
A ZZ4 GM crate engine has been installed in the Nash, where it produces 335 horsepower from its 5.7-liters of displacement. A four-speed automatic handles the shifting duties, making the Airflyte good for either cruising or drag racing. The car also comes with a GM-sourced suspension and 10-bolt rear end that can take the abuse of foot-to-the-floor shenanigans without sacrificing comfort.
From the custom paint and thoroughly reworked body to the powerful drivetrain and surfboard perched on the roof, you aren’t likely to encounter another Nash Airflyte wagon that’s been given this kind of high-performance treatment. That’s if you run into any Airflyte wagon at all—although its aerodynamic design and other innovations are all around us in today’s cars and trucks.
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.