1953 Hudson Hornet Sedan

Hudson began production in 1909 by building assembled cars - buying components from various manufacturers and building a car in their factory. Within a few years, they had become a major American manufacturer.

The 'Step Down' Hudson was one of America's most roadworthy cars in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The company offered engine options that made the Hudson a favorite of stock car drivers - and a regular in the winner's circle.

The Hudson Hornet was introduced in 1951. A mechanically-advanced automobile, it offered a streamlined body with a low center of gravity. For 1953, three basic series were available - the Jet, Wasp, and Hornet, with variations within each series. Hudson sales had begun to decline in late 1953, Hudson merged with Nash and moved its production from Detroit to Kenosha, Wisconsin, about one year later.

The Hornet was equipped with a 308 cubic-inch, H-145 inline six-cylinder engine that developed 145 horsepower. Hudson offered special 'severe usage' parts for high performance, making it one of the hottest cars on the road during its time. The base factory price of the Hornet sedan was approximately $2,700.

Stock car racing was dominated by the Hornet in the early 1950s. This was an incredible feat for Hudson since the cars contained many luxury features.