1934 Hudson Terraplane Convertible Cabriolet

Offered here is a rare and beautifully preserved 1934 Terraplane Convertible Cabriolet, an elegant example of Hudson’s celebrated mid-1930s engineering and unmistakable Art Deco styling. 

The Terraplane, introduced by Hudson in 1932, quickly earned a reputation for spirited performance, advanced engineering, and sleek modern design. Its lightweight construction and powerful inline engine made it one of the most respected performance cars of its day, even endorsed by aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. 

This Cabriolet remains largely original, retaining its authentic character and period presence. The car was tolled off the showroom floor in its original Silver Dust color (one of four colors offered for this line that year in a cabriolet). At some point, when owned by Frank E. Gambino of Jennings, MO it was resprayed Black in the early 1960s and presents today with a mature patina consistent with a well-cared-for vintage automobile. This Terraplane stood out and was documented in the 1969 Hudson “White Triangle News” as the welcomed car to the 1968 Hudson Nationals. This cabriolet was later purchased by avid Hudson collector Wayne Graefen of Texas who at the time, began to create and is still used today as a framework of the “Terraplane Handbook Restoration guide”. Wayne improved on the convertible by having the running boards reconditioned, wiring updated in original reproduction fashion as well as having the engine and suspension carefully reconditioned. This has ensured dependable touring capability while preserving originality. The car benefits from a 12-volt electrical upgrade for improved starting and reliability, a thoughtful enhancement for modern usability.   

A key feature of this Terraplane is that it has never been disassembled, other than the running boards.  It retains all the original bolts that held this body and frame together from factory.  I bought this car from Wayne 10 years ago and upon my inspection found no signs of damage and or rust of any kind since new.  It has become my go to automobile for country driving and have loved its dependability. 

Recently the dashboard has been beautifully restored in its original-style woodgrain finish, faithfully capturing the warmth and craftsmanship of the era. Interior details reflect the refined yet sporting character that made Terraplane so distinctive in its day.  21st Century Hudson recently did a standard ignition tune up and also added factory fog lights to enhance the front-end “sunrise” grill.  The bumpers and interior brightwork as well as the window frames with its “disappearing vents” were redone to enhance its beauty 

Design highlights include: 

Sweeping fenders and flowing Art Deco body lines 

Convertible cabriolet configuration with graceful open-air profile 

Distinctive Terraplane badging and period brightwork 

Strong-running inline engine 

Reconditioned suspension for confident road manners                                  

Less than (10) 1934 convertibles exist today as recorded by the Hudson Club 

This is not an over-restored example, but rather an honest and highly presentable, mostly original prewar automobile that retains its soul and patina. Ideal for CCCA events, regional shows, or vintage touring. 

It is a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine 1934 Terraplane Convertible Cabriolet mostly untouched— a car that embodies the optimism and innovation of prewar America.