The Hudson Hornet, a trailblazing automobile introduced in 1951, revolutionized the automotive world with its innovative “step-down” design. This groundbreaking feature, combined with a sleek body and a low center of gravity, propelled the Hornet to the pinnacle of NASCAR dominance until 1954.
Its superior handling and smooth ride rivaled even the most luxurious offerings from Cadillac and Lincoln. However, the first-generation Hornet’s reign was short-lived, as Hudson merged with Nash-Kelvinator to form American Motors Corporation (AMC) in 1954. While the nameplate persisted for another year, it was on a completely different platform, abandoning the iconic “step-down” design.
The second generation Hornet, built on the senior Nash platform, offered both inline-six and V8 engine options. Unfortunately, the Hudson brand, along with the Hornet nameplate, was retired in 1957. Today, the first-generation Hornet, once a symbol of innovation and racing prowess, is often overlooked.
Despite its relatively high production numbers of 131,628 units between 1951 and 1954, finding a well-preserved example is a rarity. Many of these iconic cars succumbed to the ravages of time, left to decay in junkyards and barns.
This particular 1951 four door Hornet, currently residing in Ida Grove, Iowa, is a testament to both the car’s enduring appeal and its past modifications. A previous owner transformed it into a camper by removing the roof behind the B-pillars and adding wooden boards to create a squared off rear section, making it suitable for a camper top.
The classic 1951 Hudson Hornet, a NASCAR legend, has been transformed into a peculiar four-door pickup. While the exact details of its conversion remain unknown, the camper section has been removed, leaving the interior stripped down to just a pair of spare tires behind the front bench seat.
Despite its unconventional appearance and weathered exterior, the Hornet’s original 308-cubic-inch inline six engine is still intact, offering a potential starting point for restoration or customization.
However, restoring this vehicle to its former glory would require significant investment, given the extensive work needed to repair the cabin and repaint the body. For those seeking a unique project car or a potential parts donor, this 1951 Hornet is available for a modest price of $1,700.
