The Hudson Wasp was a series of full-sized vehicles from Hudson Motor Car Company and American Motors Corporation. Wasp was in production between 1952 to 1956 for just 4 years. This came as the replacement to Hudson Super Custom Six and was successful. Here is everything about the 1952 Hudson Wasp.
Engines
The 1952 Hudson Wasp was equipped with the iconic inline-6 engines. These engines ruled the tracks before the arrival of V8 engines. As it was a comfort passenger car, the calculated top speed for Hudson Wasp was around 90mph. This was not a high-speed car, but the cornering and handling for the vehicle were high. It was one of the best vehicles for long drives during the launch time.
Mechanical Features
The technology of Hudson was always one step above. This Wasp model featured a step-down monobilt construction. It was one of the unique technologies from Hudson that was rarely used in American cars. Wasp featured an independent suspension which was equipped with semi-elliptic leaf springs and hydraulic shock absorbers. These paved the way for a smooth and comfortable driving experience. It was a FWD drivetrain with a solid rear axle. Because of its technology, the Hudson Wasp provided great mileage and durability. The vehicle was available with both manual and automatic gearboxes. Not many new the Hudson Wasp featured in the NASCAR Stock Racing in the 1950s.
Interior Features
The interior features were considered great. Hudson incorporated an upscale styling with luxury features. The idea was to keep the interior comfortable as this would help Hudson generate sales. The bench seats, armrests, and tan special-weave cord upholstery were the key interior features. Other features like Brown leather-grain dashboard, clock, instrument cluster, door courtesy lamps, ashtray, and cigarette lighter were available as well. The spacious cabin was an advantage for Hudson Wasp.
Iconic Step-down Design
Not many people know about Hudson’s step-down chassis which allowed people to sit inside the frame. This technology also enhanced the safety with extra headroom, handling, and smooth rides. Hudson was the pioneer of this technology which was later used in other brands with different styling. It was also used in other Hudson cars like Hornet and Pacemaker.
Designs
Hudson Wasp had its designs based on the Hudson Hornet. This is why the Wasp was called the brother of Hudson Hornet. Apart from the step-down design, it featured a large chromium grille with horizontal bars. The other styling like streamlined fenders, curved windshield, and flowing bodylines were the major attractions. Hudson Wasp was available in colors like Ivory, Maroon, Light Blue, and
Dark Green.
Sold in Australia
Though the Hudson Wasp was manufactured in the USA, it was also sold in Australia apart from South Africa and New Zealand. The vehicle was available as sedan, coupe, convertible, and Hollywood hardtop. Hudson Wasp was sold for around $2,500 USD to $3,000 USD based on the models. Around 61k units were sold in 4 years. This was one of the best selling Hudson cars of the 1950s. Restored models of the Hudson Wasp are now available in collector markets.
