1915 Hudson Model Six-40

The 1915 Hudson models were distinguished by careful refinements, the most visual was the honey-comb type radiators. Two body styles were available, the Model 6-40 and the Model 6-54. Powering the Six-40 was an inline six-cylinder engine displacing 288.5 cubic inches and offering nearly 30 horsepower. The Model Six-54 was powered by a 421 cubic-inch engine developing 55 horsepower. The six-cylinder engine had become a staple of Hudson production, and while the 1913 Hudson was available with either a four- or six-cylinder powerplant, the 1914 Hudson was exclusively a six-cylinder model. Although the 1914 Hudson six-cylinder engine, which replaced the four-cylinder units were larger, its price tag was actually less. Visual changes for 1914 included enclosed hinges and a reshaped radiator.

The 1915 Hudson Model 6-40 rested on a 123-inch platform, while the Model Six-54 had a 135-inch wheelbase. Both were available with an array of open and closed body styles - seven for the Model 6-40 and three for Model 6-54.

Additional changes to the Model 6-40 for the 1915 model year included a higher headlamp tie-bar, a new non-folding two-piece windshield with a pivoting upper portion for the open cars, repositioned control pedals with the gas pedal now between the brake and clutch pedals, and a new electric horn. Along with visual changes, mechanical changes included a newly tapered frame resulting in a shorter turning radius, a new tubular driveshaft reducing driveline mass, and the uprated engine now featuring an improved manifold with more efficient pre-heating of the intake air.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2020