This 1928 Hudson Model O Convertible Sedan is pristine, distinguished, and incredibly rare. For the 1928 model year, Hudson featured several styles designed and built by Murphy Body Company, renowned for its custom bodies on luxury makes including Duesenberg and Lincoln. Exactly how many Murphy Model O Convertible Sedans were produced is not known. However, it’s believed that fewer than five remain today. This is one of them.
The Hostetler Hudson Auto Museum Collection bought this Model O at auction in 2002. The car was thought to have been in storage for the previous five decades. While the vehicle was complete and well-preserved, it needed to be restored to its former glory. However, the Hudson was stored for several more years before being sent in 2008 to LaVine Restorations in Nappanee, Indiana. There it received a complete body-off-frame restoration. The process took 15 months and was completed in 2009.
For the Win(s)!
Following the LaVine restoration, the Model O competed in the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it won Best of Class. It has also earned Full Classic recognition from the Classic Car Club of America. Additionally, the Hudson won National First Prize honors at the October 2010 Hershey Fall Meet under judging by the Antique Automobile Club of America.
A Singular Sensation
Each of the remaining Murphy-bodied Model O Convertible Sedans has unique traits not seen in the others. This Hudson, for example, is the only one known to have a three-piece hood with completely removable side panels and a fixed top. Most Model O hoods are four-piece units with a hinged top and hinged side panels. Unique features also include the individual polished stainless-steel strips attached to the body panels, which traverse the length of the hood, body, and cowl.
This Hudson also has many parts that went on Duesenbergs, including interior door handles, window cranks, and windshield wipers. All of the metal around the windows and other metal trim is nickel-plated, adding to the vehicle’s elegance. This Model O’s steering wheel is hard rubber on a steel core, a Hudson innovation that was an auto-industry first. In addition, the vehicle has the Murphy trademark “Clear Vision” narrow windshield and window pillars.
Exterior Details
1928 Hudson Model O Convertible Sedan Specs:
- ‘Super Six’ six-cylinder, 4.7-liter engine
- 92 hp
- 127-inch wheelbase
- Rear-wheel drive
- “Clear Vision” windshield and window pillars
- One of five thought to remain in existence
- Body by Murphy
- 2010 Hershey Fall Meet National First Prize Winner
- 2009 Pebble Beach Best of Class Winner
Interior Details
