1956 Nash Ambassador Custom Sedan

For 1956 the early Ambassador Custom models were available in hardtop and four-door guise. The up-market Series 80 model was powered by the Packard V8 and all were fitted with Packard's Ultramatic transmission. The Packard V8 was replaced later in the year when AMC introduced its own V8 powerplant.

For 1956, the Ambassador was given a complete facelift, just like the Statesman. The front and rear fenders, grille, hood and taillight treatments were among these updates. Along the side of the vehicles were a Z-shaped chrome side swipe and outline moldings, highlighting the two-toning color of the body. Another first for the Ambassador in 1956, was the 12-volt battery system.

This Series 80 Ambassador Custom Sedan is all-original. It is painted in two-tone green paint with a green, blue and silver multi-patterned upholstery. The factory grey carpeting remains in place, along with the clock, pushbutton radio, heater and air-conditioning which are all original to this vehicle.

Under the hood is a Packard V8 engine that has been driven 55,000 miles since new. For 1956, just 3,885 four-door Ambassadors were built in the six-cylinder and V8 series.

In 2009, this 1956 Nash Ambassador Custom Sedan was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey auction in Monterey, California presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $30,000-$50,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $24,200 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2009