1928 Hudson Model O Convertible Sedan

This Murphy-bodied Hudson has many parts that went on Duesenbergs (interior door handles, window cranks, windshield wipers, and the dash has a special finish). All metal around the windows and other metal trim are nickel-plated, which is quite elegant. The colors used adds to Hudson's appearance. The running boards are of an unusual design made of varnished wood and have nickel drop-through grooves at the front and back doors so dirt and snow can drop out along with nick-plated metal strips. The Convertible Sedan bodywork is built in lightweight aluminum.

The exact number of Murphy Convertible Sedan Model O produced is not known. It is believed that less than five remain today, and each of them has unique traits not seen in the other surviving examples. This example, for instance, is the only one known to have a three-piece hood with completely removable side panels and a fixed top. Most Model O hoods are four-piece units with a hinged top with attached and hinged side panels. Another unique feature found on this vehicle includes the individual polished stainless-steel strips attached to the body panels, which traverse the length of the hood, body, and cowl.

This Model O has the Murphy trademark 'Clear Vision' narrow windshield and window pillars.

This Hudson was acquired by the Hostetlers sight unseen via Pete Booz and Richard Griffith from a California auto auction in 2002. It was believed that the car had been stored for the previous five decades. At the time of purchase, it was solid, complete, and well-preserved but in need of total restoration. After being stored for several more years, in 2008, it was sent to LaVine Restorations of Nappanee, Indiana, where it received a complete, body-off-frame restoration. The work took 15 months and was completed in 2009. In the back is a rear luggage trunk, which was also restored and covered with new material and finished with 200 round, nickel-plated heads.

Upon completion, the car was taken on the Pebble Beach Tour and competed in the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, earning Best of Class. It has been awarded Full Classic recognition from the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA), with approval granted on June 7, 2010. It earned National First Prize honors at the October 2010 Hershey Fall Meet under judging by the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA). It has also been shown at the Concours d'Elegance of America and Glenmoor Gathering. Most recently, the vehicle has been on long-term display at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan.