Hudson’s Step-Down innovation was a post-war first from an American carmaker – the Big Three were still limping along with pre-war designs. The modern styling attracted plenty of customers, infusing Hudson with cash. The long, low construction was also a boon to NASCAR, where racers were always looking for an edge. The lineup began with the Commodore and the Supers, and evolved to the entry-level Pacemaker, the racy Hornet, and the Wasp. But development costs, along with difficulties maneuvering the Step-Down frame into new designs, eventually forced Hudson toward a merger with Nash-Kelvinator, forming American Motors Corporation in 1954. Here on facebook Marketplace is a 1950 Pacemaker, listed with a price of $8000 and located in Des Moines, Iowa. Thanks to NW Iowa Kevin for the great tip!
The Pacemaker arrived with Hudson’s 232 cu. in. six-cylinder, rated at about 112 hp. The engine is paired with a column-shift, three-speed manual; third gear is sticky until the car warms up. The meager horsepower had to stand against a 3660 lb curb weight, which was at least 400 lbs heavier than the company’s largest pre-war models – a byproduct of the Step-Down frame design. And even this comparison is unfair: the Pacemaker sat on Hudson’s shortest wheelbase at 119″. This example’s odometer reading of around 44k miles is all she’s traveled since new, according to the seller. The car is still operating on its original 6V electrical system and wiring harness. On the other hand, the brake hoses and master cylinder are new, the wheel cylinders have been rebuilt, and the sway bar links were replaced.
The interior shows wear, but none of its components are unbearable. The upholstery is loose, the door cards are rough, the rubber mat is torn in places, the trunk is surface-rusted but still contains the spare. Despite the car’s advancing age, the seller has kept it clean and presentable.
Hudson’s Step-Down styling resulted in a wider car with more headroom than body-on-chassis construction. Crucially, the geometry of the car resulted in a low center of gravity and excellent cornering ability, generating success on the track. While the Pacemaker sold well at first, the Hornet was the company’s NASCAR champion, and its sales cannibalized Hudson’s other models. This tidy car could be kept as is with a few upgrades to render it more usable, or it could be turned into a hot rod – the fate of many a Hudson. Which road would you follow?
That opening side profile shot just made me say “Wow”!!! I hope it doesn’t become a hot rod. I was glad to see it still has its 6 volt system as well. And looks like they’ve kept it roadworthy too. Very nice looking step down Hudson. Thanks Michelle!!!