USA vs USA — 1951 vs 1951
| Hornet Twin H-Power | Hornet | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 145 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,047 cc | 5,047 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.1 sec | 12.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 104 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 5,283 mm | 5,283 mm |
| Units Produced | 130,000 | 43,000 |
| Original MSRP | $2,543 | $2,543 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1951 Hudson Hornet Twin H-Power brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1951 Hudson Hornet answers with quicker acceleration, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Hudson Hornet. The 1951 and 1951 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1951 Hudson Hornet Twin H-Power holds a clear advantage in raw power with 170 hp compared to 145 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Hudson Hornet uses a Inline-6 L-head displacing 5,047 cc, while the Hudson Hornet relies on a I6 OHV with 5,047 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1951 Hudson Hornet edges ahead at 12.1 seconds versus 12.1 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.