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

The new cars appeared on December 7, 1947. “You’re face to face with tomorrow,” said the ads, and “this time it’s Hudson.” Both dealers and the public were elated. The roof was low, but there was still plenty of room inside. Sales jumped nearly 50 percent over 1947, and Hudson rose from 13th to 11th place in the market.

The Pacemaker Custom Convertible Brougham offered here was outfitted with the 308-cubic inch, 180-brake horsepower Twin H engine with dual carburetors from a Hudson Hornet of the same era, which greatly improved its performance to the same power that moved NASCAR Hornets. It has recently been refinished in the correct color of Cornish Cream, with fresh chrome, a complete, new dark red leather interior, and a new black Haartz cloth top, and it is equipped with a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive, a power top, wide whitewall tires, and rear fender skirts, as well as a functional clock and radio. The owner notes that this car is an absolute joy to drive, and in fact, it recently completed a 500-mile trouble-free trip.

For the enthusiast who wants to drive and enjoy a step-down Hudson, there is simply no better choice than this rare Convertible Brougham, as it is finished in iconic colors with the best possible powerplant under the hood.