Hudson was best-known for its revolutionary “Step-Down” models of 1948. These low-built cars had unitary construction of body and chassis, rear wheels mounted inside the chassis frame, and coil-spring independent front suspension. The cars were original in their advanced styling and amazingly different in their ride qualities and performance, mainly because of the change in basic design philosophy.

Technicians within the industry were aware for years that the lower a car could be built, the better it would ride and handle; with these considerations, it certainly contributed to being a safer automobile. In period, you could instantly see that the Hudson was the lowest American car built; this was done without sacrificing road clearance or head room. The car hugged the road tenaciously and was regarded as America’s best-riding and safest car. The distinctive beauty of its free-flowing, artistic lines was admired then as now.

Revolutionary at the time, they proved successful in NASCAR stock car racing. Sales reached a peak of nearly 145,000 units in 1950, but it was a downhill slide from that point on. Hudson merged with Nash-Kelvinator in 1954 to form American Motors and production was transferred from Detroit to Kenosha, Wisconsin. Ironically, both the Hudson and Nash names were gone by 1957 as the firm concentrated on compact cars under the Rambler label.

The Custom Commodore Eight was Hudson’s top model for 1950. At $2,893, this was the marque’s most expensive model. Powered by a 254-cid, 128-hp straight eight-cylinder engine, the senior Hudson rode a 124-inch wheelbase. Hudson built three models within the Custom Commodore Eight series including the convertible model. A total of 16,731 were produced of the three models for the 1950 model year. This car presents nicely, especially with its yellow exterior with dark red leather interior and tan canvas convertible top. The interior displays many artistic-type details; from the instrument panel to the pleated seats and diamond-patterned side panels. Full seat-width grab bars aid rear seating ease. Wide whitewall tires, beautiful chrome trim elements (including grille), plus fender skirts add to the period look. It is equipped with power steering, power windows, power top, heater, clock and radio.