An unrestored 51 200

Posted by Ross On 2016/9/3 20:09:53

I have just had the pleasure of waking up this exceptionally fine original which has been sleeping in some snug corner since 1966. It has had the usual all new brakes, fuel system, radiator recore, belts hoses etc etc. I filled the cylinders with Blaster for two weeks before attempting a thing and was rewarded with an engine that turned readily with no stuck valves. Starting it was pretty much anticlimatic.

The car is a pleasure just to look at, but even more to drive: very quiet, tight as a tick over bumps, creamy smooth steering with no play. Even the windows roll up and down with a pleasant feel. Brakes are reassuring, handling is confidence inspiring, and the ride is impeccable. The Ultramaitc is creamy smooth and not all that sluggish as the engine has not lost any of its low speed torque to old age. This is what they were selling in 1951.

I have owned and driven a number of competitive cars from the era but the combination of qualities of this 200 puts them in second place. The ease of handling contrasts sharply with concurrent Chryslers and Buicks.

Here are some photos to enjoy and for reference.

Attach file:

---

  (201.42 KB)


  (190.10 KB)


  (212.24 KB)


  (152.27 KB)


  (226.28 KB)


  (190.62 KB)


  (145.22 KB)