Few cars tell stories as rich as the Steve McQueen 1952 Hudson Wasp. This two-door Brougham bridges the world of Hollywood cool with the grit of NASCAR history, making it far more than just another classic American car.
Hudson’s Racing Pedigree
Hudson carved a reputation in the early 1950s as a powerhouse on the NASCAR track. From 1951 through 1954, Hudsons dominated, winning dozens of races and securing three consecutive championships. The brand’s “step-down” chassis gave these cars an edge, blending low center of gravity handling with raw strength.
The Birth of the Hudson Wasp
In 1952, Hudson expanded its lineup with the Wasp, offering buyers a shorter wheelbase design paired with new styling and performance options. The Twin H-Power setup, dual carburetors feeding the inline six-cylinder, was a standout, pushing performance well beyond the standard single-carb model. Buyers could also choose the Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a rare luxury at the time.
Power and Performance
This particular 1952 Hudson Wasp carries the celebrated inline six-cylinder engine with Hudson’s Power Dome cylinder head and the desirable Twin H-Power carburetor setup. Backed by the optional Hydra-Matic Drive automatic transmission, it strikes a balance between performance and comfort. Its short-wheelbase design adds agility, while the step-down chassis ensures stability, a combination that helped Hudson dominate NASCAR.
Steve McQueen’s Connection
For Steve McQueen, cars were more than props; they were passions. From Ferrari to Porsche, his garage always reflected taste and character. Yet later in life, McQueen gravitated toward American machines, and this Hudson Wasp stood out as one of his favorites. His widow, Barbara Minty, recalled how much he loved the car, often driving it around Santa Paula and using it for school runs. She described it as his “Sunday-go-to-church car.”
A Car with Provenance
After McQueen’s passing, the Hudson was sold at his estate auction in 1984. Years later, in 2006, it became part of the Petersen Automotive Museum collection, where it was admired by enthusiasts at shows such as the Steve McQueen Car and Motorcycle Show and the Friends of Steve McQueen event. The car still carries mostly original paint and interior, adding authenticity to its 63,537 miles.
Honest Preservation
While many classic cars undergo extensive restorations, this Hudson Wasp retains its original charm. The interior shows the patina of time, while the engine bay displays the legendary Power Dome head and Twin H setup. It has been maintained as needed, including an engine rebuild in the past, but it has never lost its originality.
Cool Factor Beyond Compare
McQueen once said, “I worked hard; and if you work hard, you get the goodies.” This Hudson Wasp was one of those goodies. Blending NASCAR heritage, American design, and the unique ownership of a Hollywood icon, it embodies both performance and personality.
Summary
The Steve McQueen 1952 Hudson Wasp is more than a car; it is a slice of cultural history. With its NASCAR roots, Twin H-Power performance, and direct connection to the King of Cool, this Hudson represents originality, style, and timeless coolness in one unforgettable package.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
