2006 Melbourne International Motor Show Auction
Lot
43
1929 Essex Challanger Sedan
Sold: $13,000
Sold
Specifications
| Engine | In-line 6-cylinder, 161.4-cid |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 3-speed manual |
| Body Work | Sedan |
| Colour | Burgundy/Black |
Description
This lot is no
longer available
Created in October 1917, the Essex Motor Company was a marketing move by Hudson to produce a separate line of cheaper cars and the name was apparently chosen at random from a map of England.
The first Essex was built in 1918 with a powerful four-cylinder engine and soon proved popular, particularly with the introduction of an affordable closed sedan body style in 1922 that ultimately saw a shift in sales away from open tourers in America. By 1929, the Essex Challenger was powered by a L-head six-cylinder engine developing 55bhp, with a three-speed floor-mounted gearbox. The110.5-inch wheelbase chassis was fitted with four-wheel Bendix mechanical drum brakes.
The basic styling of the 1928 Essex was carried over, albeit with a slightly larger radiator and a beltline that ran the length of the body. In March 1929, Hudson used a series of publicity stunts by dealers, including braking, acceleration and fuel consumption tests, in the ?National Challenge Week? to promote the Essex and sales boomed as a result, helping Hudson to secure third place in the industry that year.