The first completely redesigned postwar Nash was given an extremely rounded shape as a result of extensive wind tunnel testing carried out to reduce aerodynamic drag. The result was the Airflyte models with a smooth, rounded shape and almost fully-enclosed wheels. They quickly earned the nickname “bathtub” Nash. A running example is for sale on Craigslist in Michigan City, Indiana for $2,995.

The sweeping silhouette of this ’51 Nash brings to mind some of the profiles that Mercedes and BMW are using on their new crossover – high sedan things. On its introduction in 1949, the Airflyte models had to look like something from another planet when compared to the automotive offerings before the war. Even today, they are handsome cars.

This 1951 Nash Ambassador Custom has plenty of surface corrosion, but there are no fully rusted-through areas visible in the photos. There are a few odd dents, but nothing that would indicate any serious damage to the body. The undercarriage is in remarkably good condition with traces of the original gray paint visible, but some of the steel suspension components are pitted. The brake lines are corroded and will need to be replaced.

The interior is in poor condition, but when the sunburned paint is taken into consideration, it is to be expected. The door fabrics are hanging in tatters and we can see the springs in the rear seat. The front seat is covered but it is likely just as bad. The ’51 Nashes didn’t have the way cool Uniscope instrument of the earlier models mounted on the steering column, instead reverting to a conventional instrument panel in the dashboard

Power is supplied by this overhead valve, 234 cubic inch straight six cylinder engine cranking out 112 horsepower. Less-upscale Ambassadors had to make do with a 176 cubic inch flathead six. In 1952, buyers could choose a GM-sourced Hydra-matic transmission or a standard three speed column-shifted unit. This Ambassador has the standard three-pedal setup. The seller states that the engine “runs good”, but he does not mention if can move (or stop) on its own. The seller is open to offers – what would you do with it?