1950 NASH AIRFLYTE STATESMAN
When American automobile production resumed following World War II, some American manufacturers took a very futuristic view of the coming decade of the ‘50’s. The design, by renowned automotive engineer Nils E. Wahlberg, of this very aerodynamic Nash reflected that view, was wind tunnel-tested and shown to have a very low coefficient of air drag--enhanced by the covered front wheels--and was found to create a car with a minimum of wind noise on the road. The optional “Sky Lounge” interior was also a real novelty of its time, converting to a double-bed cabin with a clever design of reclining seats, as was the curved one-piece windshield. All gauges were housed in another item of the future, the “Uniscope”--a pod sitting on top of the steering column. The radio (with original optional front and rear speakers) and all controls were housed behind a sliding aluminum cover in the center of the dashboard. Below this hidden control panel is a locking pull-out drawer providing more space than a conventional glove compartment. Nash even had a “Weather Eye Conditioned Air System” (not to be confused with later air conditioning systems) to facilitate ventilation and heating. Our car is in beautiful and correct condition and, with its 6-cylinder engine and three-speed-with-overdrive transmission, is comfortable cruising at modern highway speeds. It would be a difficult task to duplicate this “car of the future,” a true piece of post-war modernistic automotive art. Original tools, owner’s manual, shop manuals and even a Nash fender cover and car cover are present.
1-908-234-2055
Car is in New Jersey
photo and text credit: The Stable
