Image of 1934 Hudson Series Lu, sourced from www.prewarcar.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1934 Hudson Series Lu: A Testament to Elegance and Innovation

The 1934 Hudson Series Lu stands as a majestic testament to the era's opulence and technological ambition. Crafted during a time when the automotive industry was grappling with economic challenges, this vehicle emerged as a symbol of resilience and luxury. The Hudson Motor Car Company, established in Detroit in 1909, was known for its innovative engineering and stylish designs. The Series Lu, in particular, was a product of meticulous craftsmanship and represented a significant milestone for the manufacturer during the tumultuous 1930s.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Series Lu is its connection to Amelia Earhart. The famed aviator was not only a spokesperson for Hudson but also had a special 1932 Hudson Essex Terraplane built for her—a precursor to the Series Lu models. This association with an iconic historical figure adds to the allure and narrative of the Series Lu lineage.

Design and Innovation: A Closer Look at Elegance on Wheels

The exterior of the 1934 Hudson Series Lu exuded sophistication with its sleek lines and aerodynamic silhouette. The chrome accents on the grille and around the headlamps provided an elegant contrast to the body's deep, lustrous paint. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury, with high-quality fabrics and leathers that signified Hudson's commitment to comfort and style. Woodgrain accents on the dashboard and door panels added a touch of class that was expected from high-end vehicles of that period.

Technologically, the Series Lu was ahead of its time, featuring innovations such as an optional electric hand (a pre-selector gearshift system) that allowed drivers to select gears without using a conventional clutch pedal. Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to more adventurous hues that reflected personal style and societal trends.

The Hudson Series Lu came in various body styles including sedans, coupes, and convertibles. The most iconic among these was arguably the Brougham convertible, which perfectly encapsulated the spirit of freedom and luxury that many sought during that era.

Historical Significance: The Legacy of the 1934 Hudson Series Lu

The Series Lu's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It pushed boundaries in terms of both aesthetics and mechanics, influencing future generations of vehicles. Its blend of style, comfort, and innovation set it apart from other cars of its time, cementing its place in automotive history as an icon of early 20th-century luxury.

Performance and Handling: Experiencing the Drive

Underneath its polished exterior, the 1934 Hudson Series Lu boasted impressive performance for its time. With a top speed that could reach up to 80 mph—a remarkable feat in those days—the car offered exhilarating acceleration for spirited driving experiences. The handling was refined for its era, absorbing bumps with grace while maintaining composure on winding roads. Drivers often remarked on the smoothness of the ride, complemented by the purring engine that delivered power reliably when called upon.

Ownership Experience: Living with a Classic

The 1934 Hudson Series Lu served multiple roles—from daily transportation for affluent individuals to a coveted showpiece at prestigious events. Maintenance required dedication due to its age and sophistication; however, many owners found joy in preserving such an exquisite piece of automotive history. Reliability was commendable for its day, though modern standards have shifted expectations.

Fun Facts: Did You Know?

A little-known fact about this classic is that it may have been one of the first cars to offer a built-in radio as an option—a luxury feature at that time! While not known for breaking speed records or dominating sales charts, it held its own as a symbol of status and technological progress.

Collector's Information: The Pursuit of Rarity

Today, finding a 1934 Hudson Series Lu is akin to uncovering hidden treasure. With production numbers not extensively documented but estimated to be low due to economic conditions of the era, each surviving model is highly prized by collectors. Values can vary widely based on condition, provenance, and originality; however, well-preserved examples could fetch anywhere from $60,000 to over $100,000 at auction or private sale.

Conclusion: Celebrating Automotive Excellence

The 1934 Hudson Series Lu remains a shining example of what American automakers were capable of during an era marked by both adversity and elegance. Its legacy endures in every polished chrome detail and every smooth mile it travels—whether on modern roads or through pages of history books.

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Spare Tire Mount. 1/2" top I.D., 1" Bottom I.D., 1-5/8" O.D-CG 50Spare Tire Mount. 1/2" top I.D., 1" Bottom I.D., 1-5/8" O.D. Each

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Hood Corners. Used at rear of hood. Slip-over type-HC 28-AHood Corners. Used at rear of hood. Slip-over type. 60° angle. No steel. It will duplicate the original appearance. 1-3/4" wide. Pair

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Upper Motor Mount. 5/8" I.D., 2-5/8" O.D. Each-MM 7-BUpper Motor Mount. 5/8" I.D., 2-5/8" O.D. Each

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Lower Motor Mount. 5/8" I.D., 1-5/8" O.D. Each-MM 7-CLower Motor Mount. 5/8" I.D., 1-5/8" O.D. Each

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Headlight Pads. 7-5/8" long X 3-1/4" wide. Pair-MP 798-EHeadlight Pads. 7-5/8" long X 3-1/4" wide. Pair

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Tail-light Pads. 3-9/16" long X 2-5/16" wide. Pair-MP 798-FTail-light Pads. 3-9/16" long X 2-5/16" wide. Pair

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Tail-light Pads. 3-5/8" wide X 12-1/8" long. Pair-MP 798-OTail-light Pads. 3-5/8" wide X 12-1/8" long. Pair

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Fenderlight Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 4-1/4" long. Pair-MP 798-PFenderlight Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 4-1/4" long. Pair

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Rear Leaf Spring Center Mounting Insulator-RP 23-GRear Leaf Spring Center Mounting Insulator. For all 1-3/4" wide leaf springs. Each

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Clutch and Brake Seals. Seals fit on a round shaft-RP 31-NClutch and Brake Seals. Seals fit on a round shaft. Made of soft rubber. 2-7/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Vertical Division Bar Seal. Enough for two vents. Each-VS 1Vertical Division Bar Seal. Enough for two vents. Each

1934 Hudson SERIES LU Front Vent Window Seals, for Convertibles-WR 9Front Vent Window Seals, for Convertibles. 25-1/4" long each. Pair R&L