Hudson Eight Eight Boattail Speedster 1931
General description :
Advertised as the “Hudson Greater Eight,” the 1931 Hudsons were offered on the short Series T and long-wheelbase Series U chassis with a wide array of 17 available body styles. Continuing with power supplied by the eight-cylinder engine debuted the previous year, Hudson once again was solely an eight-cylinder model line in 1931. Displacement was increased for the Hudson Eight’s sophomore year, now measuring 233.7 cubic inches with 87 rated horsepower. The deepening Great Depression slashed production and sales at Hudson to levels not seen since the post-WW I recession, yet company management still felt the need for an exciting low-production, sporty image leader. Hudson had previously offered boat-tail roadsters sporadically in 1927 and 1929 on the Essex chassis, with bodies attributed by some automotive historians to Hudson’s customary coachbuilding partner, Biddle and Smart. Again in 1931, an Essex boat-tail roadster was offered. Since by this time Hudson and Essex shared bodies, a Hudson boattail was created, this time with bodies supplied by Murray, which employed famed stylist Ray Dietrich at the time. The 1931 model year marks the only time this body style was offered on a Hudson chassis, a combination so rare it was never even listed in factory sales literature. Only 12 are believed to have been produced and as few as five are thought by marque authorities to remain in existence.
Rakish and adventurous with its tapered boattail body and swept-back windscreen, this 1931 Hudson Greater Eight Boattail Roadster, alternatively known a Sport Roadster, this extremely rare example continues to benefit from a high-quality restoration performed during 2007-2008 that continues to present very well today. Accolades include a 1992 AACA (Antique Automobile Club of America) National First Prize and CCCA (Classic Car Club of America) National First Prize award (Badge No. 1770), attesting to this vehicle’s show career prior to when the restoration was completed. By 2010, the Hudson was part of a significant private collection and subsequently exhibited several times at venues including the Concours d'Elegance of the Eastern United States.
Captivating in Red with Burgundy fenders and accents over rich Burgundy upholstery, this Hudson Boattail Roadster remains handsome and well-presented, notwithstanding some age-appropriate mellowing of the show-quality restoration. Complementing the daring and effective two-tone paint scheme are a new Black canvas soft top and matching boot cover, attractively sculpted headlamps and unusual oval cowl lamps, a Hudson radiator mascot, a chrome driver’s side spotlight, accent paint stripes along the beltline, and period style Whitewall tires on Burgundy wire-spoke wheels. The interior compartment is inviting and handsomely trimmed throughout, complemented by the wood grain steel dash and instrument panel, Art Deco-inspired instrument housings. Additional highlights include twin side mounted spares, a jaunty rumble seat and a pair of side curtains for emergency weather protection. Underhood resides the 234 cubic-inch Hudson eight-cylinder L-head powerplant, with correct finishes and components present.
With so few examples produced and known remaining in existence today, this wonderful 1931 Hudson Greater Eight Boattail Roadster will certainly be welcome at a multitude of shows and classic tours. This CCCA Full Classic also offers an unparalleled opportunity to be carefully elevated to concours-ready condition as desired. One of the greatest and rarest expressions of “Jazz Age” automotive style, this 1931 Hudson Greater Eight Boattail Roadster is a fabulous find for collectors and enthusiasts of great prewar American cars.
Offers welcome and trades considered
1931 Hudson Eight Eight Boattail Speedster is listed for sale on ClassicDigest in St. Louis by Hyman Ltd. for $225000.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Hudson Model : Eight Model Version : Eight Boattail Speedster Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1931 Sub type : Convertible Location : Missouri Vehicle Registration : Undefined
225000 $
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About Hudson
Buckle up, folks, because we're about to take a thrilling ride through the incredible history of Hudson, the American automaker that roared through the golden age of cars with style, innovation, and a whole lot of spirit!
Born in the USA:
Hudson was as American as apple pie and jazz music. It rolled onto the scene in the early 1900s, right when the automobile industry was hitting its stride. From the start, Hudson was all about making cars for the everyday American, and boy, did they do it with flair!
Step On It!
Hudson was known for its performance. The Terraplane, introduced in the 1930s, became a legend for its speed and reliability. It was the kind of car that could outrun anything on the road and still have room for a family picnic in the back.
Innovators Extraordinaire:
Hudson wasn't content with just being fast; they wanted to be first. They introduced the "step-down" design in the late 1940s, making their cars lower and sleeker for better handling. It was a game-changer in the automotive world and set the bar for everyone else.
Racing Legends:
Hudson wasn't just about making cars for the street; they wanted to dominate the racetrack too. They stormed into NASCAR and became legendary for their racing successes. Drivers like Marshall Teague tore up the track, making Hudson a force to be reckoned with.
The Hudson Hornet:
When we talk about Hudson, we can't forget the Hudson Hornet. It was a true icon of the 1950s, winning countless races and stealing the hearts of car enthusiasts everywhere. That sleek, low-slung design and the unmistakable hornet emblem made it an instant classic.
End of the Road:
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Hudson merged with Nash-Kelvinator in the 1950s to form American Motors Corporation (AMC). While it marked the end of the Hudson brand, its legacy lives on in the hearts of those who remember the "Fabulous Hudson Hornet" and the roaring spirit of a true American automaker.
So, there you have it, the incredible journey of Hudson, the American underdog that roared through the automotive world with style, innovation, and a whole lot of high-spirited determination. Cheers to Hudson, a name that will forever be etched in the annals of automotive history!