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The 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom Six Hollywood Hardtop represents a distinctive chapter in American automotive history, standing as one of only 358 examples produced in its model year. As Hudson navigated a changing automotive landscape, models like the Hollywood Hardtop showcased the marque’s commitment to unique styling and innovative engineering. This particular vehicle embodies the era’s flair with its striking tri-tone paint scheme and signature “Hollywood” design elements, immediately distinguishing it from its contemporaries. It is a rare and captivating classic, offering a glimpse into a period when American cars were renowned for their bold designs and distinctive character.
Powertrain and Innovative Engineering: Powering this elegant classic is the renowned 308ci L-head inline-six engine, a powerplant celebrated for its robust design and smooth operation. This particular example is enhanced with Twin H-Power induction, a highly desirable feature consisting of dual Carter single-barrel carburetors, which when new contributed to a factory rating of 175 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. A testament to Hudson’s ingenuity, the engine incorporates Selecto-Lift starting, an innovative feature where lifting the shift lever engages the starter motor, adding a unique touch to the driving experience. Power is smoothly delivered to the rear wheels through a reliable automatic transmission, ensuring a comfortable and effortless ride.
Distinctive Hollywood Styling: The exterior of this 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom Six Hollywood Hardtop is a visual celebration of 1950s automotive design. The car has been refinished in a captivating three-tone paint scheme, featuring a crisp white roof complementing a body finished in classic Black and Mint Green. “Hollywood” models were renowned for their unique design cues, and this example proudly displays them, including a wraparound windshield that offers expansive visibility, and elegant fender-mounted side mirrors. The distinctive reverse-rake C-pillars and mini-fins culminating in vertical taillight towers add to its dramatic silhouette. Chrome bumpers with overriders provide a touch of grandeur, while the period-correct Continental kit on the rear further enhances its classic appeal. V-Line Styling cues are evident with vee-shaped chrome elements framing the mesh grille and chrome full-length body-side moldings that expand on the quarter panels to encompass gold fills, creating a truly unique presence, though some chassis corrosion has been noted.
Chassis, Wheels, and Ride Comfort: This Hudson Hornet rides on period-correct 15″ steel wheels fitted with chrome covers, wrapped in classic Goodyear Super Cushion Deluxe whitewall tires, completing its authentic vintage look. The car’s ride quality and handling are managed by a thoughtfully engineered suspension system. The independent front end features coil springs and tube shocks, designed to absorb road imperfections and provide a smooth ride. At the rear, a combination of a Panhard bar, radius rods, and coil springs ensures stability and comfort. Driving ease is significantly enhanced by power-assisted steering, making maneuvering this classic a pleasurable experience. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with four-wheel power drum brakes, providing reliable stopping power for confident navigation.
Classic Interior with Modern Comforts: Stepping inside this 1956 Hudson Hornet reveals a meticulously preserved interior that blends classic aesthetics with a touch of modern convenience. The cabin features comfortable bench seats upholstered in beige vinyl and cloth, offering ample space and a timeless appearance. The door panels are finished in an elegant combination of silver and white vinyl, complementing the black dash pad and carpeting. Adding to the comfort of the occupants, this Hornet is equipped with a Weather Eye air conditioning system, a desirable feature for enhanced climate control. A push-button AM radio provides period-correct entertainment, and a practical drawer-type glovebox offers convenient storage. It is noted that while the seats fold, they do not recline, and one may have a broken hinge. The driver is presented with a two-spoke steering wheel featuring a classic chrome horn ring, positioned in front of a 120-mph horizontal-sweep speedometer, along with gauges for coolant temperature and fuel level. The five-digit odometer displays 64k miles, with approximately 30 miles added by the selling dealer. A steering wheel center cap and one dashboard knob are noted as missing.
A Unique Chapter in Automotive History: This 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom Six Hollywood Hardtop stands as a remarkable testament to a bygone era of American automotive innovation and styling. Its rarity, being one of only 358 units, combined with its distinctive tri-tone paint scheme, Twin H-Power engine, and a host of period-specific features, makes it a highly desirable classic. The presence of features like Weather Eye air conditioning and power steering further enhances its appeal, offering a blend of vintage charm and improved drivability. As a well-preserved example with notable originality and thoughtful updates, this Hornet offers enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to own a significant piece of Hudson’s legacy, representing a bold and unforgettable design statement from the mid-1950s.
Summary:
- This is a 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom Six Hollywood Hardtop, one of 358 produced.
- It features a 308ci L-head inline-six engine with Twin H-Power induction and Selecto-Lift starting.
- Power is sent to the rear wheels via an automatic transmission.
- The car has been refinished in a three-tone paint scheme (white roof over Black and Mint Green).
- Exterior highlights include V-Line Styling cues, a Continental kit, wraparound windshields, and mini-fins.
- It rides on 15″ steel wheels with chrome covers and Goodyear whitewall tires.
- Equipped with power steering, power drum brakes, and a unique suspension setup.
- The interior features beige vinyl and cloth bench seats, Weather Eye air conditioning, and a push-button AM radio.
- The five-digit odometer shows 64k miles, and a clean Missouri title is included.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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