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1956 Hudson Hornet Custom
2dr Hollywood Hardtop
6-cyl. 308cid/165hp 1bbl
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$27,800*
-14.5%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Apr 2025
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1951-1957 Hudson Hornet stats
Highest sale
$1,265,000
Lowest sale
$2,850
Most recent sale
$134,400
Sales
150
Photos
1 photoImage may not reflect selected vehicle.
Past sales
$134,400
1953 Hudson Hornet Base
1090 M
North America
Feb 15, 2025Broad Arrow Auctions
View details
$41,800
1952 Hudson Hornet Base
Standard
North America
Jan 23, 2025Barrett-Jackson
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$36,300
1952 Hudson Hornet Base
53069 M
Standard
North America
Jan 10, 2025Mecum Auctions
View details
$14,854
1953 Hudson Hornet Twin-H Power
Europe
Dec 13, 2024Car and Classic
View details
$15,618
1952 Hudson Hornet Base
Europe
Dec 6, 2024Car and Classic
View details
$23,625
1952 Hudson Hornet Base
1400 M
Automatic
North America
Oct 23, 2024Bring a Trailer
View details
Insurance
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**Figure based on a stock 1956 Hudson Hornet valued at $27,800 with OH rates with $100/300K liability/UM/UIM limits. Actual costs vary depending on the coverage selected, vehicle condition, state and other factors. Hagerty determines final risk acceptance.
More 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom values
Model overview
Model description
The Hornet rode on Hudson’s unique “step-down” chassis, which invited passengers to step into its recessed floor pan rather than climb onto a floor level with the chassis rails. This innovative bit of engineering lowered the Hornet’s center of gravity, increasing handling performance. The car was very attractive to racers, especially when combined with Hudson’s factory optional 210hp “7X” engine. This big-bore flathead engine was often lauded as the most powerful six-cylinder in the world, potent enough to directly compete, and win, against the likes of Oldsmobile and its big overhead-valve V-8 on the NASCAR circuit. The Hornet’s standard engine was the 308ci six, fed by a single two-barrel carburetor until 1953 when the Twin-H dual-carb option increased horsepower to 170hp. Following Hudson’s 1955 merger with Nash to form AMC, attempts to rejuvenate the declining Hornet model included a trendy 1950s body style complete with a tri-tone paint scheme and copious chrome “V” emblems. Despite these efforts, a meager 3,100 units were sold in its final year – a disappointing demise for the once “Fabulous” Hudson Hornet.
Vehicle specifications
- Wheelbase - Inches121,121.3 in
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Common Questions
The value of a 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $24,050 for a 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom at auction over the last three years was $23,100. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.
The lowest selling price of a 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom at auction over the last three years was $16,507. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
In the last three years there have been 2 1956 Hudson Hornet Customs sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1956 Hudson Hornet Custom was $16,507 on July 27, 2023 by AutoHunter.
Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.
Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.
Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.
The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.