For Sale at Auction: 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster in Las Vegas, Nevada

Chassis No. N2060
Engine No. NHA1066

The Nash-Healey Roadster was a landmark transatlantic partnership between Nash-Kelvinator and Donald Healey Motor Company. It stemmed from a chance acquaintance between Donald Healey and George W. Mason, president of Nash, while both were en route to the United States and looking to build an innovative new sports car. The two hit it off, and a grand idea was concocted.

Nash would provide its inline-six engine and three-speed manual transmission with overdrive from the Ambassador model, while Healey supplied a modified chassis from the Silverstone sports car. First-year examples sported bodywork fabricated by Panelcraft Sheet Metal in Birmingham, but the design itself as well as final assembly were Healey's responsibility. The cars were then shipped Stateside and sold under the Nash banner. Initially unveiled in prototype form at the 1950 Paris Motor Show and ready for production in 1951, the Nash-Healey beat the likes of the Chevrolet Corvette to the title of America's first post-war sports car.

This Nash-Healey Roadster is finished in Champagne Ivory over a red leather interior and is one of just 104 examples produced for 1951. Like all first series cars, it is powered by a 235 cubic-inch Dual Jetfire inline-six with dual SU carburetors, producing 125 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Standard features include steel wheels and drum brakes, while the interior sports full leather upholstery, an adjustable steering wheel, and a cigarette lighter.

Chassis number N2060 has recently been stored in The Vault at the esteemed Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California and is now offered with 2,508 miles on the odometer, a number believed to have been accrued since its restoration. With its spirited inline-six powerplant and handcrafted British chassis, this 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster offers a rare chance to experience a transatlantic post-war blend of performance and character.