Big Fun on the Highway, circa 1931

Jon B

Here's an exciting chase scene from "The Big Gamble", 1931. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=hRnLlVL6wnE The second car looks like an early 20's Hudson, maybe a limo? The moto-meter seems to have a white triangle in the center. Take a look and see what you think.

That's James Gleason, grand old character actor, behind the wheel, and Warner Oland (one of the Charlie Chans) in the back seat.

Lee ODell

For one thing: they sure were not afraid to go cruising I would like to see more of these older Hudsons at meets around here. When I see Hudson pictures at meets from down under I get excited looking at all those older Hudsons cruiseing over dirt roads, crossing streams and climbing up and down mountain passes. Thats more than a cruise its an adventure.

stev1955

Thanks for posting that. Not to hijack this thread but how fast did Hudson's go back then? Our 30 Essex won't go over maybe 35 mph before the revs seem too high. But the engine is not rebuilt. Thanks again.

hudsontech

It does look like an early 1920's Hudson. Stev1955 - early 1920's Hudson were capable of doing 60-70, at least. By 1929 they were capable of doing 80-90 and perhaps a bit more. Trouble back then was a lack of paved highways. I don't think I'd like to drive 80 or so on some of the highways they had back then.

On the plus side there wasn't that much traffic so danger of collision wasn't all that great. In rural areas, howver, one had to be careful and watch for farmers (or whomever) coming out of side roads in the family Model T Ford.

Hudsonly,
Alex Burr
Memphis, TN

Marconi

Car that rolled appears to be a 24 to 26 Chrysler, cop car is a 25 to 27 Buick! Great clip!

stev1955

Thanks Alex, great clip Jon B.

ESSX28-1

Hi Steve1955, I cruise my Essex at about 40 mph but I've fitted a high ratio diff from a Essex 4. I always felt with the original diff that 40 was a max in terms of engine revs

stev1955

Thanks Dave for that information. I haven't checked the compression in this engine yet but it can't be too good after 82 years.

Hudsonrules

Thanks, I enjoyed the clip. I will from now on look at the moto meters. I have probably missed a few early Hudson's by not paying close attentipon. Arnie in Nevada.

hudsonguy

If you ever get a chance to get a ride from Aaron Cooper (HET Pres.) in his '29 Hudson, you'll be amazed how fast the old ones can go! Of course, he's rebuilt the driveline, so everything is top notch mechanically, but it IS basically stock, and it FLIES!!!

Richie

The good old movies, I love them. Great idea to post that Jon. Richie.