Image of 1955 Nash Ambassador Super, sourced from www.classicandcollectorcars.com , Image Link.

1955 Nash Ambassador Super: An Emblem of Mid-Century Automotive Elegance

The 1955 Nash Ambassador Super stands as a testament to a transformative era in automotive history, a period when cars were not just modes of transportation but symbols of status and style. Born from the innovative minds at Nash Motors, this model was the culmination of post-war American optimism and the burgeoning consumer culture. The Ambassador Super was not just another car; it was an integral part of the American Dream, with its sleek lines and advanced features capturing the imagination of a generation. A notable moment in its history was when it became one of the first cars to offer factory-installed air conditioning, setting a precedent for comfort in the automotive industry.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1955 Nash Ambassador Super was nothing short of revolutionary. With its distinctive enclosed front wheel wells and the signature Nash 'Airflyte' aerodynamic design, it cut through the air—and competition—with grace. The interior was equally impressive, boasting high-quality fabrics and an attention to detail that spoke volumes about the craftsmanship of the era. Technological features such as reclining seats that transformed into beds and the aforementioned air conditioning system were ahead of their time. Color options ranged from classic black and white to more adventurous two-tones, with shades like "Mardi Gras Red" and "Sunset Pink" catching buyers' eyes. Among body styles, the hardtop coupe with its pillarless design stood out as an icon of mid-century automotive fashion.

Historical Significance

The Nash Ambassador Super's impact on automotive design was profound. It challenged conventional aesthetics with its unique 'bathtub' styling and set new standards for vehicle comfort and convenience features. This model helped pave the way for future innovations in car design, proving that practicality could coexist with beauty.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1955 Nash Ambassador Super housed a potent 320 cubic inch Packard V8 engine that delivered impressive performance for its time. Although exact figures vary, top speed was respectable and acceleration from 0-60 mph took place in under 11 seconds—a notable feat for a luxury sedan of this size. The car's handling characteristics were praised for their smoothness; it glided over road imperfections with ease thanks to its unitized body construction and soft suspension setup. Drivers often remarked on the quiet hum of its engine and how it contributed to a serene driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The Ambassador Super served various roles from a prestigious daily driver to a coveted show car. Its reliability was commendable, though some components like the Packard-sourced engine could be challenging to service due to their complexity. However, for those who valued uniqueness and comfort over outright performance or ease of maintenance, this car was a prized possession.

Fun Facts

This classic has seen its share of limelight with rare editions such as the "Le Mans" performance variant adding to its allure. Celebrity ownerships further cemented its status as a vehicle of distinction. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own in terms of sales success during its time. Criticisms often centered around its unconventional looks which were polarizing; you either loved or disliked the 'bathtub' design.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1955 Nash Ambassador Super is a cherished collectible with values ranging significantly based on condition and originality. Production numbers were limited compared to mass-market contemporaries, suggesting rarity but exact figures are elusive. Over time, appreciation for this model has grown with well-preserved examples commanding premium prices well into five-figure territory.

Conclusion

The 1955 Nash Ambassador Super is more than just an automobile; it's a rolling piece of art that encapsulates a pivotal moment in American history. Its blend of innovation, style, and luxury makes it an enduring classic that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1955 Nash Ambassador Super 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

1955 Nash Ambassador Super Accelerator Pedal Pad, 1-1/2" X 9-3/4", Each-AP 21Accelerator Pedal Pad, 1-1/2" X 9-3/4", Each

1955 Nash Ambassador Super Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high-BN 10Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high., with 5/8" I.D. Each

1955 Nash Ambassador Super 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

1955 Nash Ambassador Super Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3" long. Pair-CB 47Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3" long. Pair

1955 Nash Ambassador Super 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

1955 Nash Ambassador Super 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

1955 Nash Ambassador Super Front Door to Cowl Drain Seal. 12-1/2" long. Pair-ELP 4501Front Door to Cowl Drain Seal. 12-1/2" long. Pair

1955 Nash Ambassador Super 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

1955 Nash Ambassador Super Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 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 or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1955 Nash Ambassador Super 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.