Real-Life Doc Hudson Hornet Heads to Auction
Legendary racecar Doc Hudson perfectly embodied the classic luxury and performance of the 1951 Hudson Hornet as the mentor to young Lightning McQueen in the popular Pixar film, “Cars.” Now, one person can actually own the real-life inspiration of Doc Hudson’s vehicle.
In August, automative auction house Gooding & Company will put the vehicle up for bidding at Pebble Beach Auctions. According to a release from Gooding & Company, the “Cars” team used the replica as a one-of-a-kind during promotions for the 2006 film.
Not only does the vehicle feature an autograph by Paul Newman, the voice of Doc Hudson, the car also comes equipped with a Twin H-Power engine, originally not available during the car’s first relaese year of 1951.
“Instead of the standard 145 horsepower engine one could order, in 1952, the ‘Twin-H’ version with dual carburetors, incresing the horsepower to 170 and then, with subsequent tuning (the so-called 7-X modification) up to 210 horsepower,” according to the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum.
At the time, the engine used in this design found itself considered the largest six-cylinder engine in existence. Historian Dave Bonbright owns the vehicle and consigned it to auction. He also served as a consultant on the film, helping to develop Doc around the Hudson Hornet.
According to the release from Gooding & Company, Bonbright promises to donate a portion of the proceeds to SeriousFun Children’s Network, Paul Newman’s charity. The car is valued between $90,000 and $120,000. For those interested, contact Gooding & Company for more information.
Feature Image Credit: Gooding & Co.