1936 Hudson Custom Eight Touring Sedan

Hudson logged 25,409 shipments for 1936 and 123,226 units in all, counting Terraplane and Commercial vehicle shipments. They earned $3.3 million in profits, an astonishing accomplishment during the historically poor economic times. Part of their success was due to the highly revamped cars for 1936. They had a modern design motif, including rounded surfaces and high domed fenders with a 'waterfall' style grille in the front. All Hudon series rode on a longer-wheelbase chassis with wider bodies than in previous years. In 1936, the company introduced many technical advancements, including the adoption of hydraulic braking with a mechanical backup unit operating the rear brakes if the brake pedal exceeded ¾ of its maximum travel. The 'Axleflex' independent front suspension offered in 1935 was replaced with Hudson's Radial Safety Control, using a solid front axle, delivering steady steering response and stability with a smoother and softer ride.

This particular vehicle is a Series 67 Custom 8 Touring Sedan. It was the company's most expensive model that year, priced from $975. Its wheelbase measures 127 inches, and it came equipped with the 'Electric Hand' pre-selector shifter, a 'banjo' steering wheel, radio, dual side-mounted spares, dual external chrome horns, rear fender skirts, full chrome wheel covers, wide whitewall tires, a bubble-style trunk suitable for large and bulky luggage, and period 'wig-wag' tail lamps.

This particular example is believed to have been owned from September 1939 by C.H. Mathewson of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, who last registered the vehicle in 1960. It was acquired a year later by its next owner via a wrecking yard in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, with intentions to restore it that were unfulfilled. In 1987, it was sold to George Nell of Hubertus, Wisconsin, who began a total restoration that was nearly finished but cut short due to his deteriorating health. The car's next owner was Eldon Hostetler, who purchased it in the fall of 1994 and had the restoration finished with the fitting of new upholstery and detailing of the engine compartment.

This car is powered by a 254 cubic-inch L-head inline eight-cylinder engine fitted with a single Carter carburetor. There is a three-speed manual transmission, a wheelbase that measures 127 inches, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2019