1935 Hudson Model GH

Sold $22,400 USD

• An attractive and capable alternative to the Big Three offerings of the era
• 212-cid inline-six; three-speed manual transmission
• Previously restored in green over a tan interior
• Pioneering all-steel bodywork, new for 1935

From its founding in 1909, Hudson enjoyed a reputation for building stout, well-engineered vehicles, often with features typically offered only at higher price points by larger brands. The 1935 models were no exception. Though greatly resembling the prior years models not a bad thing, as they were attractive and well-proportioned cars they newly featured all-steel bodywork, beating General Motors to the punch by a year.

Hudsons 1935 offerings included a range of eight-cylinder models, differentiating it from the lower-priced Terraplane sub-brand, which received only six cylinders. However, Hudson also offered the Big Six as its entry model, with pricing for the Big Six Suburban five-passenger sedan starting at $802. Standard output for Hudsons 212-cubic-inch inline-six was 93 horsepower, just a scant few horses shy of Fords flathead V-8, but a higher-compression cylinder head, which cost $18.50, helped boost this to an even 100 horsepower. Particularly when paired with the uprated engine, these handsome, punchy, and well-built cars anticipated the hot Hudson Hornets that would become so famous following World War II.

Hudson built 7,623 Big Sixes in all body styles for 1935, including the Suburban Sedan offered here. The Suburban is immediately identifiable by its integrated rear trunk, improving luggage capability for longer trips and lending the car a distinctive bustle-back look. Prior to its acquisition by the Vehicle Vault Collection in 2012, the car is said to have been owned by a marque specialist who performed a body-off restoration. The quality of this restoration is evident throughout, and its color combination of green over a tan interior is particularly well-chosen. Cabin details include a distinctive oval instrument cluster set in a wood grained dashboard, while a winged mascot perched on the hood leads the way forward.

Hudsons were built in far smaller numbers than their Big Three Detroit contemporaries and today are seen far less frequently at shows and events, which is a shame. This 1935 Big Six, still wearing its attractive previous restoration, would be a wonderful acquisition for someone seeking something a little different for shows and events, as well as an ideal entry point to the active and dedicated community of Hudson owners and enthusiasts.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/hf26/.