Few vehicles capture the romance of pre-war American motoring quite like the Hudson Terraplane, and this 1938 Hudson Terraplane 1/2-ton pickup—currently offered through the Throttle Car Club Auction—stands at the very top of an already limited field. The result of a meticulous seven-year restoration, this rare survivor has been brought back to near-factory condition and now reads as true collector-grade machinery.
Finished in a striking two-tone Gun Metal Metallic with period-correct red accents and pinstriping, the truck embodies the bold Art Deco styling that defined late-1930s American design. The signature waterfall grille, sweeping fenders, wide whitewall tires, and side-mounted spare give it a presence that is both elegant and unmistakably purposeful. It is the kind of vehicle that stops conversations at a show field.
Under the hood sits the correct 212ci L-head inline-six, restored to factory specification and paired with a 3-speed manual transmission with overdrive. The engine, transmission, rear axle, drive shaft, and rear end have all been rebuilt, and the mechanical presentation reflects a clear focus on authenticity. Notably, the original cracked block is included with the sale, a thoughtful touch for collectors who value documentation and originality.
The restoration extends well beyond cosmetics. The truck was brought back to near-factory condition throughout, including the chassis, suspension, and interior. Inside, a correct bench seat, dash clock, and period instrumentation set the tone, while the cargo bed has been beautifully finished with a wood floor and polished runners. Every detail points to the patience invested across the seven-year build.
Hudson built the Terraplane pickup in small numbers, and surviving examples are exceptionally scarce, especially restored to this level. That combination of rarity, craftsmanship, and historical significance makes the truck equally compelling as a showpiece or as a standout addition to a serious collection. For drivers, it offers a rare chance to experience pre-war engineering in a form that remains both usable and visually captivating.
The 1938 Hudson Terraplane is being offered with restoration documentation where available and a clean title. Collectors interested in the full set of photos, specifications, and bidding details can view the complete listing on the Throttle Car Club Auction page.
Throttle Car Club’s Auction specializes in buying and selling collectible cars located throughout the New England area. Our Annual Live In-Person Auction features as many as 100 vehicles on site at our new 35,000 sf facility in Scarborough, Maine, each year. All registered buyers and sellers get access into event as well as our welcome reception. Lastly, Throttle is also a licensed used car dealer in the State of Maine. Please continue to check out inventory for available vehicles for sale/auction.
Our team of industry experts understands that trust is a key component when deciding to buy a vehicle. Our team of qualified collector car experts can assist you in finding your dream car on a nationwide basis while providing investment valuation guidelines. We are ready to deliver you the best experience possible while achieving your desired results.
How to buy a car on auction?
- Register on one of the links above to start bidding.
- Get Pre-approved for financing by JJbest. Click here to apply.
- Winning Bidders are required to pay a $1000 deposit at time of auction with the balance of the sale due to Throttle within 2 business days.
- Throttle can provide a shipping quote by a reputable transport company if needed.
- Throttle will provide you with all documentation necessary to register your car.
Buyer Fees
- 10% Buyer’s Premium on vehicles purchased at in-person live auctions
- 13% Buyer’s Premium on vehicles purchased on online auctions
Once we receive your completed registration form, you will receive a confirmation email from our Bidder Registration Department.
As a registered bidder, you and a guest will receive designated seating and access to the cocktail reception on Friday evening.
Bidder registration fees are non-refundable.
Schedule of Events
June 16th – 18th – Consignment Vehicle Dropoff 9:00am – 4:00pm
June 19th –
Vehicle Preview 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Registration 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Registered Buyer & Seller Welcome Reception 5:00pm – 7:00pm
June 20th – Registration Opens at 8:00am
Auction Starts at 10:00am
If you have questions regarding this process, call us at (888) 959-8051 x 6 or email us at auction@throttlecarclub.com. Our bidder registration experts are ready to assist you!
John Lloyd