Image of 1938 Nash Lafayette, sourced from en.m.wikipedia.org , Image Link.

1938 Nash Lafayette: A Testament to Innovation and Style

The 1938 Nash Lafayette emerges from the annals of automotive history as a testament to the ingenuity and elegance of pre-war American car design. Born from the assembly lines of Nash Motors, this vehicle not only encapsulated the aesthetic preferences of the late 1930s but also showcased a company's determination to offer luxury at an accessible price point. The Lafayette was named after the French military hero Marquis de Lafayette, evoking a sense of nobility and adventure that appealed to consumers of the era.

Unique in its conception, the Nash Lafayette was one of the first cars to offer a unibody construction, setting a precedent for future automotive manufacturing. This innovation not only reduced production costs but also provided a smoother ride—a notable moment in its history that would influence generations of vehicles to come.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1938 Nash Lafayette was a harmonious blend of streamlined curves and chrome accents, exuding an air of sophistication. The prominent grille, flanked by teardrop headlamps, gave it an unmistakable presence on the road. Inside, passengers were treated to an interior that prioritized comfort and quality, with plush seating and wood-grain finishes that conveyed a sense of luxury.

For its time, the Lafayette boasted technological advancements such as an optional "Cruising Gear" overdrive system that improved fuel efficiency—a feature ahead of its time. Color options ranged from conservative hues to more vibrant tones, with Niagara Blue being a particularly popular choice among buyers. The vehicle was available in several body styles, including sedans, coupes, and convertibles, with the sleek convertible often stealing the spotlight.

Historical Significance

The 1938 Nash Lafayette's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It was one of the pioneers in unit construction body design, which would later become an industry standard. Its blend of affordability and luxury set it apart from contemporaries and carved out a niche market that Nash Motors would continue to exploit with future models.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Lafayette was powered by a robust inline-six engine that delivered smooth acceleration for its time. While top speeds were modest by today's standards, it could reach speeds adequate for the era's roadways. Handling was commendable; drivers often noted how well it managed bumps and windy roads thanks to its advanced suspension system. Behind the wheel, one could expect a symphony of mechanical harmony as the engine hummed and gears shifted with precision.

Ownership Experience

The 1938 Nash Lafayette served multiple roles—from daily transportation to weekend showpiece—and even found its way onto racetracks occasionally. Maintenance was relatively straightforward for mechanically inclined owners, ensuring longevity and reliability. However, like many vehicles of its time, it required regular attention to keep it running at peak performance.

Fun Facts

A little-known fact about this classic is that certain models were equipped with a unique 'Weather Eye' heating system considered revolutionary at that time. While not many celebrities were known to own Lafayettes, they did grace various high-profile events throughout their heyday. Criticisms were few but often revolved around their size—considered large by some standards—and fuel consumption when compared to smaller economy cars emerging at that time.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1938 Nash Lafayette holds a special place in classic car collections. While exact production numbers are elusive, it is estimated that thousands were produced. As for value range, pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000 depending on condition and originality. The market has seen a steady appreciation for well-maintained examples due to their rarity and historical significance.

Conclusion

The 1938 Nash Lafayette stands as an icon of pre-war American automotive excellence—a blend of style, innovation, and performance that captured the imagination of an era on the brink of global change. Its legacy endures in every curve of its design and every mile driven by enthusiasts who cherish this remarkable piece of history.

1938 Nash LaFayette Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 46Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1938 Nash LaFayette Accelerator Pedal Pad, 1-1/2" X 9-3/4", Each-AP 21Accelerator Pedal Pad, 1-1/2" X 9-3/4", Each

1938 Nash LaFayette Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 4" long. Pair-CB 20Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 4" long. Pair

1938 Nash LaFayette Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3" long. Pair-CB 47Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3" long. Pair

1938 Nash LaFayette Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-3/4" wide X 3-7/8" long-CB 48Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-3/4" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair

1938 Nash LaFayette Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3-1/2" wide X 3-7/8" long-CB 55Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3-1/2" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair

1938 Nash LaFayette Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-5/16" O.D. Each-GF 21Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-5/16" O.D. Each

1938 Nash LaFayette Tail-light Pads-MP 1100-CTail-light Pads. (On some models these are also park light pads.) 3-3/4" O.D. Pair

1938 Nash LaFayette Flexible glass-run channel-WC 11-72Flexible glass-run channel. Mohair lined, cloth covered with stainless steel bead. Used on side windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.