Page 76 - Experience Magazine Winter 2023

LOT #1351 - 1951 HUDSON WASP CUSTOM COUPE - NO RESERVE
THE HUDSON

THERE’S PLENTY OF BUZZ WASP
AROUND THIS CUSTOM

Renowned from inception in 1909 for durability,
innovation and quality, Detroit’s Hudson Motor Car
Company scored a major coup with the late-1947
introduction of its brilliant new “Step Down” models.
Launched while Chrysler, Ford and GM were still
producing barely warmed-over prewar cars, the sleek
new Hudsons revolutionized automobile design in
one stroke with “Monobilt” unibody construction
and offered unrivaled passenger comfort with floors
placed low within the frame rails. Another significant
benefit of the radical new design was an uncommonly
low center of gravity, making the new Hudson models
America’s best-handling vehicles. Domination on
the wildly popular NASCAR stock-car racing circuit
followed by 1951, with the new Hornet 6 utterly
dominating the V8-powered opponents fielded by
“Big Three” teams.
Covering a wider market with further developments
of the “Step Down” lines, Hudson offered the lower-
cost, shorter-wheelbase Pacemaker 6 by 1950, with
the upmarket Wasp 6 trim level available in late Idaho. Based on a KRS-built custom frame, this classic
1951. Retaining all “Step Down” virtues in a lighter, Hudson delivers modern handling and roadholding
nimbler package, the Wasp exemplified the versatility with Fox front coilovers plus RideTech Shockwave
of Hudson’s unique, industry-leading basic design. air shocks and a custom 4-link setup to the rear,
Despite the successes of the early 1950s, Hudson’s with anchor-like stopping via Wilwood disc brakes
production levels never matched those of its far-larger mounting 13-inch rotors at all four corners.
competitors and capital was lacking. Ultimately, Body modifications include shaved trim and
Hudson merged with Nash-Kelvinator in 1954 to hardware for an exceptionally clean look, plus subtly
form American Motors, itself acquired by Chrysler reshaped and precisely fitted body panels. Other
Corporation in 1987.
choice custom tweaks include twin driving lights
All surviving “Step Down” Hudsons are fitted into the smoothed front bumper, modified
enthusiastically owned, shown and enjoyed headlight rings, '37 Ford taillights and flush-mounted
nationwide by legions of fierce marque loyalists. rear-fender skirts accentuating the Hudson’s fabulous
However, few, if any, demonstrate the design’s bodylines. The demanding, mile-deep black paint
sheer genius as clearly as this stunning, full-custom finish was applied by Shawn McNally of Regenerated
build. Celebrating its rich heritage, this multiple- Rides in Nampa, Idaho, beautifully enhanced by
award-winning 1951 Hudson Wasp is the product Cerakote Bronze ceramic coating applied to the grille,
of a meticulously detailed restoration and build bumpers, engine components and captivating Schott
performed by Kenny's Rod Shop (KRS) of Boise, billet wheels.

76 BARRETT-JACKSON EXPERIENCE WINTER 2023