Hudson Hornet
The Hudson Hornet Sedan was manufactured by the Hudson Motor Car Company of Detroit between 1951 and 1954. The Hornets were made available in 2/4 door sedan, convertible coupe, and hardtop coupe. The Hornet was based on the Hudson’s 1948 ‘step down’ design which the Commodore possessed. It not only functional and chic but ensured a luxurious ride for the passengers. It imparted a sleek look which was further highlighted by its almost enclosed rear wheels.
The Hornet was driven by a 5L engine that generated 145 BHP which was later pepped to 170 BHP. The company further modified the engine to churn out 210 BHP. Even though the Hornet was cosmetically enhanced in 1952 and 1953, it still largely resembled the 1948 Commodore.
The technical intricacies of the Hornet’s body design made alterations expensive and in a situation where the other three giants, General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler could change their designs on a yearly basis, without too much expenditure, the Hornet suffered a setback. 1954 however saw the Hornet getting a major design re-vamp. The interiors too received an update.
Though these changes helped it get on par with the others, the updates came a bit to late to improve sales. The non availability of a V8 and a price tag of around $ 3000 which was high for a six cylinder engine which the Hornet had, proved to be further impediments.
Despite the setbacks the Hornet suffered on the commercial and sales domain, the Hornet dominated stock car racing in the early-1950s and during 1952, won 27 out of 34 NASCAR races. In AAA racing the Hornet captured 14 wins that totaled the number of wins that season to 40 out of 48 – an astounding performance. This was followed by 22 of 37 in 1953, and 17 of 37 in 1954, a laudable feat indeed.