Steve Mcqueens 53 hornet

1953 “Steve McQueen” Hudson Hornet by Dr. Jerry Billmeier







Our 1953 Hudson Hornet was previously owned by the actor Steve McQueen. At the time of his unfortunate death in 1980, McQueen owned over 100 vintage motorcycles and several vintage automobiles including the '53 Hornet which was said to be one of his personal favorites. My records show that McQueen did a total engine rebuild on the car in 1976 with the help of Jack Clifford in California. No radical modifications were made and the car was left essentially stock including the rarely found factory upholstery.



The car was sold at a Las Vegas estate auction in 1981 with the proceeds benefitting McQueen's two adult children. High bidder was Mr. Len Brown of Mexico Missouri who drove the car from Las Vegas to his print shop in Missouri where he garaged the car and drove it very seldom.Len advertised the car for sale in Hemmings during 1987 and I saw the ad while browsing and having no conscious intentions of buying a Hudson. Several phone conversations with Len and review of photographs led to my flying to St. Louis to meet Len and have a first hand look at the car in June 1987. After a 30 minute drive around St. Louis, I knew this was a "keeper" and we agreed on a fair price. I drove the car straight through to Memphis that day without a mishap.



Included in the sale were numerous documents including the Las Vegas Certificate of Authenticity, McQueen's title and his California plates. I was also given all receipts from the engine rebuild and minor repairs.



Mechanically, the car has been very sound requiring the usual tuneups, batteries and tires, but overall very dependable including many highway trips on the flatlands and in the mountains. The Twin H manifold and that great Hudson 6 torque give plenty of punch when needed. The Hydramatic gear box is very smooth and has required no intervention.



With a near perfect factory interior, the car only required cosmetic improvements which began in 1989 with a headliner replacement. Then in 1990 a Memphis restoration shop took the car and did a meticulous repaint form bare metal and repeating matched factory colors, metallic green over "surf green". All rubber gaskets were replaced, brightwork replated and stainless polished. A new set of Coker wide whites put the finishing touch on this stunning automobile which has been a joy to drive at all times.



Many awards have been won at various shows and the car has never been trailered to car meets. It has served grandly in many parades, weddings and as a celebrity shuttle for music performers here in Memphis. We are proud to be Hudson owners and like to think the unique spirit of Steve McQueen still resides in this great car.



Sincerely,

Jerry Billmeier