Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America's Fort Lauderdale
event, March 31-2, 2017.
Chassis No.
492139945
Estimate:
$ 80,000 - $120,000 US
The Hudson convertible was forwarded as being the most elegant
American convertible motorcar ever conceived for assembly line
production. It was marked as a car that you could own and drive
with enduring pride.
Hudson's Step-down cars for 1948 marked a new direction for the
company. A partially unitary design, it put the floorpan on the
bottom of the frame rather than the top. One would step down to
enter a Hudson, and it was truly unique in that respect at the time
of introduction.
Also new was a six-cylinder engine with pressure lubrication,
although the splash-lubed eight remained available. In 1951, the
famed Hornet model appeared, with a 308-cid version of the new six,
optional "Twin H-Power" dual carburetion and available
Hydra-Matic.
This 1949 Commodore Brougham Convertible has been modestly upgraded
with a Twin H-Power Hornet 308 engine and modern 700R4 Hydra-Matic
transmission. Equipped with power windows and power top, it also
features modern power steering, windshield visor, radio with header
antenna, clock, tissue dispenser and directional signals. A
door-mounted spotlight mirror, chrome wire wheels, fender skirts
and curb feelers complete the 1950s touch.
Upholstery is maroon leather, and gray carpet lines the floor.
Contours, paint and brightwork are all excellent and show quite
well throughout. Had this engine and transmission been available in
1949, no doubt Hudson would have built the car exactly this way.
This car represents undeniable proof that the lower a car could be
built, the more graceful its lines can be presented. This was then
associated to the Hudson being better in ride, better headroom,
enhanced handling performance - all with full road clearance.
Perfectly proportional for then-new car design; it is reported that
approximately 1,868 1949 Hudson Commodore Custom Six Convertible
Broughams were built. This is a small number that only adds to the
mystique and prestige of the legendary Hudson line.
