1931 Hudson Series U

1931 Hudson models consisted of the Series T and the Series U. The Series T rested on a 119-inch platform, while the Series U had a 126-inch wheelbase. Both were powered by an L-head inline eight-cylinder engine displacing 233.7 cubic inches and developing nearly 90 horsepower. They had a three-speed sliding gear transmission and Bendix mechanical brakes. A distinguishable feature of the Series U was the left front fender spare tire, which was unique to this model.

Having built a reputation on reliable six-cylinder cars through 1929, Hudson entered the 1930s with the eight-cylinder 'Great Eight.' Although it produced slightly less power than the six-cylinder engine, it weighed 500 pounds less and thus delivered greater performance than before. The engine, initially displaced 213.8 CID, was enlarged with a wider bore to 233.7 cubic inches and given higher compression.

Hudson offered 17 body styles for 1931, including eight on the Series U. The company held a seven-place ranking in the industry for 1931, with over 58,000 vehicles leaving the factory in total (Hudson shipments numbered 17,487 units).

The Hudson-powered Marr Special raced at the 1931 Indianapolis 500 and finished 10th overall with an average speed of 89.58 mph with Chet Miller driving.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2019