1954 Hudson Hornet Convertible Brougham
A revolutionary step-down chassis design gave this full-size convertible both a low center of gravity and exceptional handling prowess that dominated NASCAR racing throughout the early 1950s.
The 1954 model year brought a major square-lined redesign with a simpler grille, functional hood scoop, and new one-piece curved windshield, moving away from the earlier sloped styling.
Production numbers for the Convertible Brougham were extremely limited, with most sources citing around 290 units built. The convertible featured hydraulic window lifts and genuine leather upholstery available in blue, maroon, or green.
Power came from Hudson’s legendary 308 cubic inch inline six-cylinder engine, which produced 160 horsepower in standard form. The optional Twin-H-Power setup with dual carburetors could generate 170 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful six-cylinder engines of its time. The engine was paired with Hudson’s Hydra-Matic dual-range automatic transmission.
Despite the racing success and engineering innovations, Hudson merged with Nash-Kelvinator in May 1954 to form American Motors Corporation, with the last Detroit-built Hudson rolling off the line in October 1954. This marked the end of an era for the independent Detroit automaker.
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