The Hudson Motor Company, a stalwart in the automotive industry, earned its reputation for unwavering dedication to quality, performance, and value. In 1931, amidst the challenges of the Great Depression, Hudson unveiled the “Hudson Greater Eight,” a model that underscored the company’s commitment to innovation and resilience.
This model was available in two versions: the short-wheelbase Series T and the long-wheelbase Series U, featuring an impressive array of 17 body styles, showcasing the company’s versatility and attention to customer preferences.
Building on the success of the previous year, the eight-cylinder engine of the Hudson Greater Eight underwent significant refinements in 1931. With a displacement now reaching 233.7 cubic inches, the engine delivered an impressive 87 horsepower, cementing Hudson’s commitment to delivering powerful and efficient vehicles.
The decision to exclusively feature this robust eight-cylinder engine across its lineup was a strategic move that set Hudson apart from its competitors.
However, the economic climate during the deepening depression presented formidable challenges, resulting in declining sales for Hudson, reminiscent of the post-World War I recession. To revive interest in their showrooms and capture the attention of potential buyers, Hudson embarked on a creative strategy.
The company decided to combine the stylish boattail speedster from the Essex line with the more senior Hudson Greater Eight chassis. This bold move aimed to infuse excitement into their offerings and attract a new wave of discerning customers.
The Murray Corporation played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. Despite not being traditionally associated with custom coachwork, Murray’s extensive experience in providing bodies for various U.S. automakers, coupled with having the esteemed Ray Dietrich on their design team, made them a valuable and capable partner for Hudson.
Together, they crafted a sleek Sport Roadster body that perfectly complemented the powerful chassis of the Hudson Greater Eight.
It’s worth noting that the boattail Sport Roadster, a striking and distinctive creation born from this collaboration, was not officially listed in the factory sales literature. This air of exclusivity only added to its allure and mystique.
The unique design and limited production further solidified its status as a collector’s item, with only twelve of these exceptional cars believed to have been produced. Remarkably, a mere five of these boattail Sport Roadsters are known to have survived to date, adding an element of rarity that enhances their desirability among automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike.
In retrospect, the Hudson Greater Eight Boattail Sport Roadster serves as a testament to Hudson’s resilience and innovative spirit during challenging economic times. The collaboration with the Murray Corporation resulted in a vehicle that not only defied the constraints of its era but also left an indelible mark on automotive history.
Today, these rare and distinctive roadsters stand as cherished artifacts, embodying the legacy of a company that, even in the face of adversity, remained dedicated to pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence.
