1949 Hudson Commodore Custom Convertible Brougham

This Hudson Commodore Custom Six Convertible Brougham has been given a recent-, multiple award-winning restoration with cost no object. This revolutionary 'Step Down' model is powered by a NASCAR-bred 'Twin H-Power' engine, has a manual overdrive transmission, hydraulic power top and windows, and radio, and is equipped with leather upholstery. It wears one of the first new postwar American automobile designs, despite the supply shortages and labor disputes. In order to meet the fierce demand for new cars, existing prewar automobile designs were often put back into production with few, if any updates. The independent automobile manufacturer from Detroit, Hudson, was one of the first with its innovative new 'Step-Down' models with design work led by Frank Spring. The 'Step-Down' concept was a departure from the traditional body-on-frame construction, which forced occupants to step-up and into their vehicles. Instead, Hudson engineers placed the floors down inside the chassis. It was given a sturdy perimeter frame that encircled the passenger compartment and rear wheels, and the bodies were now of rigid semi-unitized construction. Along with ease of entry and exit, their low center of gravity enhanced performance and road holding.

The new Hudsons were unveiled in December 1947. For 1948, they were built along two distinct lines - the Special with six- and eight-cylinder power, and the top-line Commodore Six and Eight. The 1949 models were essentially unchanged, with the Commodores renamed 'Commodore Custom.'

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2015