Latest Posts Under: History
Dubbed “the world’s smartest car” before smart cars were a thing, the Nash Metropolitan (1953-1961) was a quirky marvel. Available as a hardtop or convertible, this pint-sized wonder was an American brainchild produced by the Brits. With a wheelbase shorter than a VW Beetle, it aimed to be the perfect second car for those who believed bigger was better. It was as nimble as a cat in a parking lot—a sub-compact charmer with a flair for style and economy in a land of gas-guzzling giants.
The Sunbeam Tiger roared into existence between 1964 and 1967, thanks to a wild plot involving Carroll Shelby, a Ford V8, and some sneaky engineering. Originally inspired by a 1925 land speed record holder, the Tiger ditched the Alpine’s old engine for a brawny V8. Shelby, fresh off his AC Cobra triumph, found a way to squeeze the Ford beast under the hood, stirring quite the fuss. Even Lord Rootes was charmed after demanding a test drive. They even used sledgehammers to fit the engine—talk about a smashing success!
The third-generation Chevy Nova, introduced in 1968, was a makeover marvel with a longer wheelbase and a facelift that officially dropped the Chevy II name. It offered 15 powertrain options, including a 350-cubic-inch V8 for the SS model, which could turn heads and tires. By 1969, Chevy slipped in a Torque-drive for clutchless thrills, and by 1970, the Nova was all about subtle changes, like larger side marker lights. Meanwhile, the four-cylinder engine quietly exited, much like a party guest who realizes they’re at the wrong event.
