A rare Rambler

Q: Greg, I enjoyed reading your column on the lifespan of the Rambler. I wanted to point out that you missed one version of the Nash Rambler that was built in 1931. I spent many fun summer days in one of them in the early 1950s in southern Alberta. It was a true roadster with side curtains, rumble seat and dual side-mount spare tires. There was chrome all over the place, including the wire spoke wheels, and it had frameless beveled-glass “wind wings.” Of course, it was an all-leather interior and even sported a burled-walnut dashboard.

The chassis was fitted with an automatic lubrication system that used heavy oil instead of grease to lubricate the suspension. The engine was a long-stroke OHV six cylinder with incredible low-end torque. It wasn’t very fast, but it would climb any hill in high gear, which was something special for a car of that vintage.

Unfortunately, it ended its days as a chopped and channeled street rod with a Chrysler V-8 crammed under the hood and was demolished in a wreck. I saw an ad for one in Hot Rod magazine back in the ‘60s where the owner stated that there were only two known to be in existence at that time. Just thought you’d like to know. — Dennis H., Spokane, Wash.

A: Dennis, thanks so much for the letter. I enjoyed your bringing to our attention the existence of the ‘31 Nash Rambler. You made my day!