1948 Hudson Commodore Convertible Brougham

Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia Auction|11 October 2020, 13:00 EDT|Philadelphia, Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

1948 Hudson Commodore Convertible Brougham
Chassis no. 48111

308ci L-head Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Twin H-Power Carter Carburetors
160bhp at 3,800rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Front with Live Rear Axle Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*One of very few convertibles made in 1948
*Iconic "Step-Down" styling
*Modified with H-Power and larger motor
*One of the finest post-war American motor cars

THE HUDSON COMMODORE

At the end of World War II, it was obvious that there would be a considerable American demand for newly designed automobiles. Hudson shook to styling world when they introduced their "step-down" design, which lowered the car 9 inches below its immediate predecessors. The floor was recessed between the box section frame girders and actually provided more headroom than its competitors. The "Monobilt "rigid, twist free body-and-frame was the ultimate in unitized construction of the time. They moved the passenger compartment forward and the back seat away from the wheels ahead of the rear axle, providing a jounce-free ride and 64-inch-wide seats.

The six-cylinder engine was rated at 121hp and was the largest mass produced six-cylinder engine. The Commodore was the top-of-the-line and at first came in 3 closed models but the convertible was added by the end of the year.

Contemporary authorities considered these the best of the American road cars because of the firm suspension, flat cornering, and an excellent balance in view of a high-performing engine.

But the most striking feature is the far-ahead smooth styling, with both novel and beautiful lines, made all the more obvious in the rare convertibles.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Equipped with extras such as spotlights and accessories of the time, this is a rare opportunity to obtain the classic Hudson convertible design, considered by noted automotive stylist Robert Cumerford "one of the best ever from the USA". An older restoration, the work has stood the test of time and today presents in wonderful condition. Its paint has been stripped and the body was brought down to bare metal in order to return the vehicle back to a fine state of being, but with some age accumulating on the job, a touch up would do some good. The double red exterior/interior fully complements the Hudson's design language and work to create a satisfying representation of the period. The interior having been more recently reupholstered, and while the hydraulic convertible top is fully operational, it is noted to need new canvas and refinishing of the top bows.

Under the skin, the engine has been swapped for the later and larger inline-6 and is fed its fuel through the "Twin-H Power carburetor set-up. This has provided the car with a good bit more grunt and makes for a solid performer. Further modifications include a differential from the Hornet model. The mechanicals had received a restoration and should be a dependable machine for its next owner. Since the work having occurred, very little mileage has been placed on the car.

A spectacular and striking automobile, the chance to procure one of these first-year convertible should not be passed up.

Saleroom notices

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