Hudson’s Step-down cars for 1948 marked a new direction for the company. It was a partially unitary design that put the floor pan on the bottom of the frame rather than the top, making one literally step down to enter a Hudson. There was an all-new six-cylinder engine, but the legacy straight eight, which was continually being updated since its introduction in the 1930s, was still carried over. Its low center of gravity made for excellent handling, for which Step-downs are still revered.

This rare Hudson Commodore was the recipient of a recent restoration, in which the semi-unitary body was completely sandblasted and repainted in Champagne Silver Pearl, which is nicely contrasted by a black canvas top. The body and paint work were done by Elite Rides in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the engine was completely rebuilt by Knighten’s Machine Shop, and the new brown leather upholstery was by Clyde’s Upholstery. A new wiring harness from YnZ’s was also installed, and the brightwork has been selectively rechromed.

This car is equipped with a power top, power windows, directional signals, a sun visor, a radio, a heater, and Borg-Warner overdrive, and it runs and drives very well, according to its enthusiast owner, with the overdrive making for effortless touring.

The Commodore Eight Convertible Brougham was the most expensive 1950 Hudson, as it was listed at a price of $2,893, which was similar to the price of a Series 61 Cadillac. Hudson experts estimate production at 425 cars, making this not only the most desirable but also the rarest of Hudson products that year.