1913 Hudson Model 37 Torpedo Tourer
Registration no. DS 8178
Chassis no. 36570
Engine no. 3704
The Hudson Motor Car Company took its name from Joseph L Hudson, who provided the finances that enabled a group of experienced ex-Olds Motor Works employees to embark on a new automobile manufacturing venture. Incorporated in February 1909, Hudson built its first car in July of that year and 12 months later had sold 4,000 units, the industry's best first-year sales record to date. Although it would later become famous for the record-breaking Super Six range, Hudson's first product was the four-cylinder Model 20, introduced as a 1910 model. Not content to rest on its laurels, Hudson introduced an entirely new car for 1911. Introduced in October 1910 and manufactured alongside the original Model 20, this was the Model 33, another inline four. After two years in production the Model 20 was dropped, leaving the Model 33 as the only Hudson on offer for 1912.
In July of that year the Model 33 range was superseded by the longer wheelbase Model 37. The latter was powered by a Continental-built four-cylinder 37hp engine displacing 280.6ci (4.6-litres) and there were five models in the line-up, arguably the most stylish of which was the five-seater torpedo tourer costing $1,875. Lavishly equipped, the latter came with an electric starter and lights, clock and speedometer, illuminated dashboard, detachable wheel rims, and a 'Rain Vision' windshield.
Found in a complete, original and untouched state, the Hudson had been restored to a high standard by a prominent Veteran Car Club member when it was offered for sale at a UK auction in 1993. Purchased there by the current vendors, it has been extensively rallied all over the UK, Ireland and beyond. This car even travelled from Portree on the Isle of Sky to South Cheshire in one day, a journey in excess of 500 miles. The Hudson has hardly ever seen a trailer, being quicker to drive to its destination than to load up! It features full weather gear while the very robust monobloc engine (overhauled five years ago) has masses of 'grunt'. Works carried out include a repaint and a new radiator core to original specification, both ten years ago. A 'go anywhere car' with lots of VCC history, this Hudson is very well known and is only being sold as the vendors' family has grown up and five seats are no longer required.
Offered with a V5 document and VCC dating certificate, this car represents a rare opportunity to acquire an historic first-of-the-line model belonging to one of the USA's most famous marques.
