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1954 Hudson Hornet

The '54 Hudson Hornet: a seriously cool car! Its sleek, powerful lines made it a racing legend (think NASCAR!), a symbol of '50s Americana. Think sharp fenders, a long hood – a real head-turner that's still admired today for its unique style and impressive performance.

1954 Hudson Hornet: A Classic Gem from Automotive Hall of Fame

Cruising back in time to the golden era of automotive excellence, one iconic vehicle stands out — the 1954 Hudson Hornet. Known for its remarkable design and racing legacy, this car has managed to capture the hearts of many. Let's unravel its story, its influence in popular culture, and peek into the garages of some famous personalities who have owned it.

Photo of a 1954 Hudson Hornet

1954 Hudson Hornet Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Hudson Hornet Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,769.00

Outstanding

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$35,800

Clean

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$27,600

Average

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$19,900*

Rough

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$13,200

1954 Hudson Hornet Specs

Body Maker: Hudson
No. Of Doors: 4
Passengers: 6
Length: 208.9 inches
Width: 77.6 inches
Height: 61.9 inches
Wheelbase: 123.9 inches
Weight: 3,620lbs
Type: Inline, L-head, Dual downdraft, Helical
Displacement: 308 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 13/16 & 4 1/2 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 7.5 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 160@3800
Horsepower Rated: 34.9
Torque: 264@1800
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: Stamped on boss near top left side of block, on top of block between no. 1 & no.2 exhaust mainfold flanges.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
2.25 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Wet plate
Clutch Size:
9.125 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.57 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.68
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.49
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 4.09 to 1
Front: Independent coil springs
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Regular
Wheel Size: 15 x 5.00
Tire Size: 7.1 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 7 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:7D269060 to 7D319720
Total Digits:N/A
All colors may not be available in all models., Beret Blue, Spring Green, St. Clair Gray, Pacific Blue Green, Silver Blue, Roman Bronze, Palm Beach Green, Royal Red, Pasture Green, Algerian Blue, Coronation Cream, Ebony Black
Sedan: Opt
Hydramatic Automatic Transmission: Opt

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History of the 1954 Hudson Hornet

The Hudson Hornet rolled into the automotive scene in 1951 and quickly gained a reputation for its unique design and stellar performance. The 1954 model embraced the "V-Line Styling," a brainchild of designer Richard Arbib. Fueled by engineering passion, the model boasted triangular motifs and vibrant tri-tone paint options, echoing the spirit of the 1950s.

Despite its allure, the Hudson Hornet faced headwinds in the marketplace due to financial hiccups and the subsequent merger with Nash-Kelvinator, birthing the American Motors Corporation (AMC) in 1954. Such corporate shuffles inevitably affected consumer confidence, but the Hornet held its ground.

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Pop Culture and Speed Records

The 1954 Hudson Hornet isn't just a relic of automotive artistry; it's a legend in racing lore. Known for achieving unofficial speed records like 171.821 mph thanks to driver Marshall Teague in the Sumar Special Indy Car, its racing pedigree is undeniable. The Hornet's participation in NASCAR further cemented its status as a track star.

And then, there's Doc Hudson — a name that sweetly echoes nostalgia for movie buffs. This animated character in Pixar's "Cars" is inspired by the Hudson Hornet, lending its charm to global pop culture, and renewing interest in this classic car among younger generations.

Popular Figures Who Own the Hudson Hornet

The who's who of classic car enthusiasts have found love in the Hudson Hornet. It's not just a car; it's a badge of honor detailing an affinity for legacy and craftsmanship.

Tim Flock

Julius Timothy Flock, fondly referred to as Tim Flock, is a name echoing in the valleys of NASCAR history. Winning the Grand National Champion Cup in 1952 behind the wheel of the Fabulous Hudson Hornet, Flock's success stories add a golden sheen to the car's legacy in racing.

1954 Hudson Hornet Gallery

Photo of a 1954 Hudson Hornet
Photo of a 1954 Hudson Hornet

Price Records

For collectors, owning a piece of history like the Hudson Hornet is like owning a tang of the past. Over recent years, prices have been as high as $134,750, showcasing its escalating popularity. Its diverse price range reflects characteristics like condition, rarity, and provenance.

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From exploring the inspiring journey of the Hudson Hornet to checking out a , the essence of vintage joy awaits you. Whether it's for curiosity or ensuring authenticity, leveraging tools like details can elevate your classic car experience.

Embrace the charm and elegance of the 1954 Hudson Hornet — it's more than metal and mechanics; it's a testament to timeless elegance and performance. Happy cruising!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '54 Hornet is pretty unmistakable, you know? It's got that distinctive, almost aggressive, low-slung design; a real head-turner, especially for its time. Think of it like a sleek, powerful greyhound compared to some of the boxier cars of the era. Key features include its powerful straight-eight engine – a real beast! – a strong chassis, and that iconic curved windshield. Plus, they came in some pretty cool colors, though some have faded a bit over the years, naturally. Finding one in really tip-top shape is a serious score for any collector.

Most '54 Hornets rolled off the assembly line with a 202 cubic inch straight-eight, but some also came with the larger 254 cubic inch version, a real power plant. The smaller engine was pretty peppy, but the 254? Whoa, that was something else. Think of it as the difference between a sporty bicycle and a Harley—totally different riding experience. It’s worth noting, however, that the availability of each engine varied depending on the trim level and other factors; it's kind of a case-by-case basis, you see.

Oh boy, that's a tough one! The price? It's all over the map, really. A rusty, parts-car Hornet? A few hundred bucks maybe. But a fully restored, concours-ready beauty? We’re talking tens of thousands, easily. Condition is everything, just like with any classic car. Think of it like buying a used house: a fixer-upper versus a move-in ready dream home. The price difference can be astronomical.

Parts availability is a bit of a mixed bag. Some common parts are relatively easy to find, especially through classic car parts suppliers or online communities. They're out there; you just gotta know where to look. However, others... well, those can be a real treasure hunt! It's like searching for a needle in a haystack sometimes. You may need to get creative, you know, scouring junkyards or specialized restoration shops. But hey, that's part of the fun, right?

Like any classic car, there are potential issues. Electrical systems can be temperamental – a common problem in cars of that age – and brake systems might need some attention. The engine, while robust, isn't immune to issues either – especially if it hasn't had regular maintenance. But honestly, with proper care and regular maintenance, these issues are manageable. It's a bit like caring for an elderly relative; regular checkups can prevent big problems.

There are several avenues. Online forums dedicated to classic car restoration are great; you'll find a wealth of knowledge and advice there. Hudson car clubs are also invaluable resources; these folks are real experts. Plus, there are some excellent books and websites specifically dedicated to the Hudson Hornet. Think of it like preparing for a marathon – you don't just wing it. You need training, a coach, maybe some new shoes. Same applies to restoring a classic car!