The Hudson Motor Car Company, launched in 1909, had a reputation for innovative, reliable, and affordable vehicles. The 1952 Hudson Wasp currently for sale on eBay would make an excellent and affordably priced first collectible. It would also be a worthy addition to any Hudson collection.
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Racing Legacy
Hudson was a bold and scrappy company known for innovation. By 1929, it was the third largest automaker in the US. Hudson also earned an enviable racing legacy, dominating Daytona and other NASCAR tracks in the early 1950s. A Hudson Wasp finished 11th in the 1954 Carrera Panamericana race, a grueling 1,900-mile slog completed by only 85 of 150 starters.
The Wasp was a new model for 1952. It was a lower-priced alternative to the popular and race-winning Hudson Hornet. Yet the Wasp still benefited from the carmaker’s appetite for innovation, including the unique Monobilt step-down chassis design.
Hudson designers positioned the Wasp’s floor within—rather than on top of—the perimeter of a boxed frame. This lowered both the floor and the car’s center of gravity to improve handling. The frame’s side rails also provided greater impact protection for passengers. Virtually all automakers later adopted variations of this design.
Running Project
A knowledgeable Hudson enthusiast listed the Wasp on eBay. It is a running and driving, rust-free project that needs only minor finishing. It can be enjoyed even as work continues. A previous owner began an extensive restoration. Its documentation and receipts accompany the purchase.
The Hudson’s pink and maroon two-tone paint combination looks completely appropriate and period-correct. The listing makes no mention of how old the paint is, but the finish looks good in the photos. The owner says it would benefit from a good buffing. Wide whitewall tires and a long windshield visor complete the period look.
Recent mechanical work includes:
- New clutch and throw-out bearing
- New overdrive transmission
- New interior components
- Additional sound deadening material
- Replacement spark plugs
A Winner
The correct 127-horsepower, 232-cubic-inch inline six-cylinder engine is under the hood. This powerplant was known for durability as well as performance. When paired with Hudson’s uniquely rigid and lightweight unibody construction, the combination was a winner on and off the track.
The updated interior is all about mid-century design. The dashboard is Art Deco-inspired, and mohair upholstery covers the sofa-like seats. Instrumentation includes a big, round speedometer and clock ahead of the driver, with smaller instruments for fuel and engine temperature. An original push-button radio sits in the center of the dash.
Hudson’s racing success and history of innovation were not enough to guarantee success. Declining sales forced Hudson to merge with Nash in 1954 before eventually being absorbed by American Motors. But its legacy lives on, thanks to Hudson’s reputation for durability and performance. A reasonable asking price of just $13,500 for this one only adds to its appeal.
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