The Hudson Motor Car Company is sadly long gone. Originally started back in 1909 in Detroit, Michigan, the automaker accomplished a lot in its short history, such as the creation of dual brakes, dashboard oil-pressure and generator warning lights, and even the first balanced crankshaft, which paved the way for their "Super Six" straight-six engine. The company reached its peak in 1929 when it, along with their budget brand line, Essex, produced a combined total of 300,000 units in a single year.
It was also a multinational company, with additional production facilities in England and Belgium. By 1936, the automaker introduced its new "radial safety control" suspension, which suspended the live front axle from two steel bars and two leaf springs. The result was what they called the "rhythmic ride" that prevented the bumps and braking that could move the car off course. Car production ceased in 1942 in order to build materials for World War II but began again in 1946. The Commodore, Hudson's largest model, was first launched in 1941, but was ended the next year due to the war. It returned in '46 with the more competitive second generation.
The owner of this '49 Commodore says that his father bought it over 30 years ago. Not long after, it was taken apart and stored in a warehouse for another 22 years before deciding to begin its restoration. The '49 body style was identical to the '48, with only a few minor changes. This car also has the fastback Brougham style and was also the first car with a unibody design. Other body styles for the Commodore included a traditional sedan, coupe, and convertible. Powered by a 121hp 262 straight-six, it was mated to a three-speed manual with an overdrive unit.
Looking at the finished product, we can see how much time, money, and effort went into the car's restoration. The final result is stunning and looks to be an ideal show car. Unfortunately, the last Hudson was built in 1957 with little fanfare due to employees being unaware that the brand would soon be discontinued. Pictures courtesy of zup28w