USA vs USA — 1955 vs 1951
| Hornet Hollywood Hardtop | Deluxe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque | 290 lb-ft | 210 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,047 cc | 3,707 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.3 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 90 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 20.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,232 mm | 5,283 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,943 | 139,452 |
| Original MSRP | $2,769 | $2,195 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $22,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 5/10 |
On balance, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1951 Kaiser Deluxe counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop for outright capability, or the 1951 Kaiser Deluxe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Full-Size cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop versus the 1951 Kaiser Deluxe. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop holds a clear advantage in raw power with 170 hp compared to 115 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Hudson Hornet uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 5,047 cc, while the Kaiser Deluxe relies on a I6 F-head with 3,707 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop edges ahead at 12.3 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,943 units built, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop is considerably scarcer than the Kaiser Deluxe's 139,452 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop commands a significant premium over the 1951 Kaiser Deluxe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.