1954 Hudson Italia - Sold at $250,000

Specifications: 114hp, 201.5 cu. in. inline six-cylinder engine, two dual-barrel carburetors, three-speed manual transmission, independent coil spring front and leaf spring rear suspension, four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 105"

Chassis 10011 was formerly a part of the renowned Harrah's Automobile Collection in Reno, Nevada, purchased in 1971 and immediately put on display. It is believed by some that this car may have been owned by the flamboyant entertainer Liberace, but no documentation has ever been found to support this story. The theory may have begun due to a penchant he had for personalizing his cars and the differences this Italia has from the rest. All were built in the same color combination, a cream exterior with a red and cream leather interior. This car has been re-sprayed in metallic silver and fitted with a black leather interior at some time prior to being acquired by Harrah's. It also has musical note figures on the vent cover below the rear window. Additional research may ultimately prove or disprove the Liberace ownership story, but with or without it, any Hudson Italia is a very special automobile.

The car comes with a large documentary file including correspondence to and from the Harrah's Automobile Collection. The older restoration still shows well and it is reported to run and drive as it should. It is perfectly presentable as a driver or would serve well as the base of a concours restoration.

Specs & Details:

Auction Date: 18 Jan 2008
Sold For: $250,000
# Bids: 5
Engine: 6
Transmission: manual
Exterior Color: white
Interior Color: red