Hudson Model History

United States · founded 1909

Detroit independent automaker (1909–1957) — maker of the 1916 Super Six, the Depression-era Terraplane, and the NASCAR-dominating 'step-down' Hornet, before merging into AMC.

Models

Hornet

Hudson's famous 'step-down' performance car (1951–1957) — the 'Fabulous Hudson Hornet' that dominated early-1950s NASCAR.

Full-size car · 1951–1957
Commodore

Hudson's senior full-size line of the 1940s–50s — the upscale companion to the Hornet on the step-down body.

Full-size car · 1941–1952
Wasp

A shorter-wheelbase step-down Hudson (1952–1956) slotted below the Hornet, sharing its handling pedigree.

Full-size car · 1952–1956
Jet

Hudson's ill-fated compact (1953–1954) — a sound car whose high tooling cost helped sink the independent.

Compact car · 1953–1954
Super Six

The 1916 Super Six — its balanced-crankshaft straight-six made Hudson a technical leader and set a 24-hour speed record.

Full-size car · 1916–1928
Terraplane

Hudson's light, fast, value-priced Depression-era brand (1932–1938) — launched with help from Amelia Earhart.

Full-size car · 1932–1938
Essex

Hudson's affordable companion brand (1919–1932) whose low-priced closed coach helped put a roof over the average buyer.

Full-size car · 1919–1932

Other makes