Hudson produced some of America’s most distinctive automobiles, but many of its lesser-known models have nearly disappeared from modern roads. Beyond the famous Hornet, the company built unusual sedans, coupes, convertibles, and specialty models that were produced in relatively small numbers. These seven rare Hudsons reveal a fascinating side of the brand that even many classic-car enthusiasts rarely encounter.

Hudson Essex Terraplane

The Hudson Essex Terraplane represented an important step in Hudson’s effort to compete in the growing affordable-car market. Introduced during the 1930s, it combined relatively compact dimensions with modern styling and useful performance. The Terraplane name became closely associated with Hudson’s lower-priced offerings, yet surviving examples are now scarce. Its streamlined bodywork and historical importance make it one of the more fascinating prewar Hudsons.

Hudson Super Six

The Hudson Super Six helped establish the company’s reputation for building powerful and durable automobiles during the early twentieth century. Its inline-six engine provided strong performance for its era, while Hudson’s engineering emphasized strength and reliability. The model was produced in several body styles, but surviving examples are now extremely uncommon. Finding one today offers a rare opportunity to see Hudson’s early engineering philosophy firsthand.

Hudson Commodore

The Hudson Commodore served as one of the company’s upscale offerings during the 1940s and early 1950s. It combined spacious interiors with Hudson’s distinctive low-slung body design and smooth six- or eight-cylinder power. The model represented a more luxurious side of the company than the rugged image often associated with Hudson. Because relatively few have survived in original condition, a Commodore can be a remarkable sight at a classic-car gathering.

Hudson Pacemaker

The Hudson Pacemaker was introduced as a more affordable model while retaining the company’s distinctive styling and engineering. Its shorter body and efficient inline-six engine made it somewhat easier to live with than Hudson’s larger offerings. Production lasted only a few years, contributing to its rarity today. Most casual enthusiasts recognize the Hudson name but have probably never encountered a Pacemaker in person.

Hudson Jet

The Hudson Jet was a compact car introduced as the company attempted to respond to America’s growing interest in smaller automobiles. It used a unibody construction and a compact inline-six, giving it a very different character from Hudson’s larger cars. Unfortunately, development and production costs contributed to major financial difficulties for the company. Surviving Jets are now uncommon, making them particularly interesting pieces of Hudson history.

Hudson Super Wasp

The Hudson Super Wasp occupied an unusual position between the company’s more affordable and premium models. It combined a relatively compact body with Hudson’s smooth six-cylinder power and distinctive styling. Although it was produced in greater numbers than some specialty Hudsons, few examples survived decades of everyday use. Today, the Super Wasp is one of those Hudsons that can easily surprise people who only know the better-known Hornet.

Hudson Italia

The Hudson Italia was one of the company’s most unusual postwar automobiles. Based on the Jet platform, it received a highly distinctive Italian-influenced body with a dramatic roofline, sculpted rear styling, and unusual exterior details. Production was extremely limited, making surviving examples exceptionally rare. The Italia now ranks among the most unusual Hudsons ever built and is a standout for collectors interested in obscure American automotive designs.

More from Fast Lane Only

• Unboxing the WWII Jeep in a Crate
• 15 rare Chevys collectors are quietly buying
• 10 underrated V8s still worth hunting down
• Police notice this before you even roll window down

*Research for this article included AI assistance, with all final content reviewed by human editors.