1952 Hudson Wasp

1952 Hudson Wasp

The Wasp, (Series 58), was introduced by Hudson for the 1952 model year as an upgraded version of the Hudson Pacemaker. The Wasp was available in two and four door sedans, convertible and a 2 door hardtop, designated the Hollywood. The Wasp was built on Hudson's shorter 119" wheelbase using the company's unitized, "Monobilt '' step-down chassis design. Hudson also offered the Super Wasp with a 262ci L head inline 6. The Super Wasp was also offered with an aluminum "Twin H" manifold and twin 2bbl carburetors. The performance of this engine matched that of the big 2bbl 308ci in the Hudson Hornet.

For consignment and not often seen, a 1952 Hudson Wasp. A garage find if you will...as our consignor bought this car from the grandson of the original owner. The grandfather had passed away and the grandson attempted to get the car running but never could. That was 1972, fast forward to 2017 and our cosigner purchased this car. After a proper tune up, reconditioning of the fuel tank, cleaning of the fuel lines, a carburetor rebuild and a once over on the brakes, (wheel cylinders and master cylinder), this rare Wasp was back to life. New exhaust was added, and this car was ready to show it off 1952 style.

ExteriorWearing what is believed to be mostly original paint, this Wasp has its fair share of battle scars. Scratches, patina, surface rust, touch ups, and paint flaking abounds. What does not appear is invasive rust! Rounded steel panels are looking good and minding their gaps nicely for being 69 years old. A bulbous hood melts into the front fenders which make their way rearward, forming aerodynamic doors and corresponding windows above. New for 1952 is stainless trimmings that follow the cut line on the body and highlight the curves of this car. Up front are the twin chrome bezel headlights that float above the wrap around parking lights in the outer edges of the grille. Horizontal taillights sit below the rounded trunk. The chrome on the bumpers at both ends is showing some pitting and corrosion along with some rust, especially on the grille sections. A shout out to the wonderful design that has aged gracefully.

InteriorWe see door panels in their original form, having a special weave cord upholstery with red and brown stripe and a dark brown leather grain vinyl at the top and bottom of the panels. These panels do show some water staining from over the years. The front doors have H127 round emblems in the center of the upper door panels, denoting the 127 horsepower the engine makes. Inside, the seating in front is covered with a green cloth and vinyl protector, we did not remove this cover so the upholstery condition on the front bench seat is unknown. In back is another bench with door panel matching weave cord upholstery with the same red and brown vertical striping on the lower seat cushion. The seat cushion has a cover that matches the front seat. A cracked and yellowed 3-spoke steering wheel fronts a very nice survivor dash that is topped with brown leather grain vinyl. Differing from Hudsons of the past, the gauge cluster is located in front of the driver. Outboard in large circles are the speedometer and a wind up clock while smaller gauges occupy the center. A chrome radio delete panel sits in the middle of the dash with an ash receptacle and glove box both in chrome to the right. Down below in the center of the dash is the heater. Rubber vinyl covers the front flooring while worn beige carpet floods the rear floors. A tight but slightly stained mohair headliner hangs above.

DrivetrainUnder the big round hood and within the unrestored engine bay sits a 262ci L-headed inline 6-cylinder engine making 127 horses. It is topped by a 2bbl carburetor that sits underneath an oil bath air cleaner. A 4-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission is behind the mill. The rear axle weighs in at a 4.09 ratio. Plenty of patina, surface rust and grime are here but it's part of this garage finds history.

UndercarriageSuspension is independent coil spring in the front and leaf springs in the rear, drum brakes are all around. Surface rust abounds on both suspension components and the unibody sections. No invasive rust is seen, even on the body hangers, gussets and inner rocker panels. A testament to the integrity of the garage this car was stored in! New exhaust snakes its way rearward and peeks out below the rear bumper.

DrivabilityMy crack decoder and partner in crime took the reins for this drive as I was out and about that day. He reported that the car fired right off with a small twist of the key and the exhaust note was music to his ears. This Wasp idles very smoothly, drives very well, has good acceleration, and exhibits bias free braking. All functions were working on the drive, and he reported an overall pleasurable driving experience.

A well-preserved garage find. A step down design unibody car with no invasive rust on the body or underpinnings. Paint is presentable for a 69 year old car that was used and then stored away for 45 years. Stainless trimmings are shiny and show some pitting and beginnings of rust on the chrome plating. Good condition and an open palette for your liking, be it a restoration, restomod, ratrod, or just enjoyed like it is.

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.