Hudson Commodore First Generation 1941-1942

Commodore First Generation 1941-1942 Featured Image
Hudson Commodore
Hudson Commodore Eight Convertible 1947.jpg
1947 Hudson Commodore Convertible Brougham
Overview
Manufacturer Hudson Motor Car Company
Production 1941-1942
1946-1952
Assembly Detroit, Michigan, United States
Body and chassis
Class Full-size
Layout FR layout

The Hudson Commodore is an automobile which was produced by the Hudson Motor Car Company of Detroit, Michigan between 1941 and 1952.

During its time in production, the Commodore was the largest and most luxurious Hudson model

First generation

First generation
1941 Hudson Commodore 8 Convertible.JPG
Overview
Production 1941-1942
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door coupe
4-door sedan
2-door convertible
Powertrain
Engine 202 cu in (3.3 L) I6
254.4 cu in (4.2 L) I8
Dimensions
Wheelbase 121 in (3,073 mm)
Custom sedan: 128 in (3,251 mm)

1941

The Commodore and the Commodore Custom names debuted in Hudson's 1941 model line. Commodore models rode exclusively on the 121-inch (3,073 mm) wheelbase, while Commodore Customs rode either on the company's 121 in (3,073 mm) wheelbase for coupes, or 128 in (3,251 mm) for sedans. The Commodore was powered by Hudson's 202 cu in (3.3 L) I6 producing 102 bhp (76 kW), or by Hudson's 254.4 cu in (4.2 L) I8 that produced 128 bhp (95 kW).

The Commodore series was Hudson's largest model range in its debut year, consisting of sedans, coupes, and convertibles. Hudson used a forward hinged hood that opened from the rear by the windshield with the front end of the hood sliding downward over the grille. Elements of the interior and exterior were styled by Betty Thatcher, "the first woman designer to be employed by a car manufacturer".

1942

For 1942, the cars received a facelift. This included concealed running boards, modestly enlarged front grilles, and external trim arrangements. Hudson offered an optional "Drive-Master" vacuum assisted clutch and servo-operated transmission with three modes: "automatic" shifting and clutching, automated clutching only, or fully manual.

The firm promoted its economy over luxury during the shortened model year that ended in January, 1942, as U.S. war production accelerated.