1952 Hudson
Commodore 6
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1952 Hudson Commodore 6: Streamlined Luxury with Step-Down Performance
The 1952 Hudson Commodore 6 was a stylish, powerful full-size car that reflected Hudson’s commitment to performance and innovation in the early 1950s. It was part of the third generation of the Commodore line and continued Hudson’s bold design ethos with its signature “Step-Down” body, giving it a low-slung, sleek appearance and excellent handling for its time.
Overview
- Body Styles Available: 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, and Hollywood hardtop
- Positioned just below the top-tier Hornet in Hudson’s lineup
- Known for its distinctive Step-Down design, where the floorpan sat inside the chassis rails—giving passengers a lower center of gravity, more stability, and better safety
Specifications
- Engine: 262 cu in (4.3L) L-head inline-6
- Horsepower: ~123 hp
- Compression Ratio: 7.5:1 (optional higher compression for more power)
- Carburetor: Single downdraft
- Transmission: 3-speed manual; optional overdrive or Hydra-Matic automatic
- Step-Down Monobilt Construction: Lower ride height improved cornering and safety
- Front Suspension: Independent with coil springs
- Rear Suspension: Live axle with leaf springs
- Brakes: 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes
Hudson’s 262 straight-six was a durable, torquey engine—less powerful than the famed 308 in the Hornet but still very respectable, especially with overdrive or high-compression options.
Design & Comfort
- Wide, flowing fenders with integrated headlamps
- Full-width chrome grille and bumper
- Two-tone paint options were popular
- Interior featured cloth or vinyl seating, tasteful dash layout, and generous room
- Available options: clock, heater/defroster, radio, whitewall tires, wheel covers
