1951 Hudson Hornet Series 7A Convertible Brougham

The Hornet was the new top-of-the-line Hudson in 1951. Power came from a high-performance 308 cubic-inch, 145-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine.

In 1948 the company launched its 'step-down' bodies, which lasted through the 1954 model year. The term step-down referred to Hudson's placement of the passenger compartment down inside the perimeter of the frame; passengers stepped down into a floor that was surrounded by the perimeter of the car's frame. In another innovative approach, the radio antenna was located on the windshield header.

Within the total production of 132,000 in 1951, not many convertible coupes were built, and even fewer were fitted with the 'Twin H' race engine. Used sparingly for a number of years and with only 48,000 original miles, this car was stored in Utah until discovered in its original state. A no-holds-barred complete restoration began as the car was restored to its original factory correct color and correct interior.

It seems very fitting that this restored car's very first public showing was in Michigan, where the Hudson Motor Company's history began. It was shown at the 2008 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance.