Essex Super Six classic cars for sale

History of the Essex Super Six

Launched in the United States during the 1920s, the Essex Super Six played a pivotal role in establishing reliable and relatively powerful vehicles in the pre-war era. As the mainstay of the Essex brand, which later became a part of early Hudson Motor Car Company lineage, the Super Six was produced in various body styles, including elegant cabriolets and striking sport roadsters with characteristic boat-tail rear ends. The use of wooden wheels and an all-steel body for certain models reflected the engineering transitions of the period. Across its production years, the Super Six gained a reputation for being robust, practical, and, in its day, offering strong performance for a mid-priced American car. These vehicles frequently made their way into the hands of collectors and enthusiasts, a trend that continues on the classic market today.

Model Evolution and Milestones

The Essex Super Six emerged during a period of significant competition in the US automotive market, succeeding early Essex four-cylinder models. By at least 1926, the Super Six was available, later evolving into different variations up to 1931 and possibly beyond. The series encompassed numerous body styles—primarily two-seater cabriolets and roadsters—and is best remembered for the rare and visually striking Sport Roadster with its distinct boat-tail design. With the further acquisition of Essex by Hudson, the Super Six paved the way for subsequent vehicles in the Hudson lineup, reflecting a period of rapid technological and design innovation.

Unique Features and Rarity

Among Essex models, the Super Six is notable for its pre-war construction, wood wheels, and rear-wheel drive layout. The boat-tail Sport Roadster variant is especially rare, with few surviving examples. These cars showcase intricate period details, a robust six-cylinder engine, and a distinctive silhouette appreciated by collectors. Restoration quality varies, with some examples benefitting from meticulous high-level restorations.

Technical Data

Special and Collectible Versions

The Sport Roadster Boat-Tail stands at the top of the Essex Super Six desirability scale due to its very limited production and visually unmistakable design. These are among the rarest finds and often feature unique trim or custom features, especially depending on prior restorations or period-correct accessories.

Typical Weaknesses and Maintenance Needs

No explicit common issues or weaknesses are listed for the Essex Super Six. In general, due to their age, buyers should closely inspect restoration quality, and verify drivetrain functionality, wood frame integrity, and originality of bodywork and mechanicals. Modifications—such as transmissions or engine swaps—should be checked for professional installation and sympathetic restoration practices.

Engine, Transmission and Driving Characteristics

The Essex Super Six provided robust driving dynamics for its time, thanks to the standard six-cylinder engine producing a comfortable level of torque for pre-war roads. Original models reach up to 70 km/h, but those with V8 conversions can achieve near 100 km/h, offering a distinctly different performance character. Shifting is via a manual gearbox; period-correct vehicles use original hardware, but modernised five-speed units occasionally appear in thoughtful restorations. Rear-wheel drive and drum brakes necessitate careful, anticipatory driving—especially at higher speeds. The combination of elegant bodywork and mechanical simplicity creates a unique driving experience, especially in the rare Roadster configuration. 1. Sport Roadster Boat-Tail: Sought after for its striking looks and rarity. 2. Cabriolet (2-seater): Classic open-top touring appeal. Base technical data: 6-cylinder petrol, 1,134 kg, 280 cm wheelbase, manual transmission, top speed 70–100 km/h (depending on spec).

Interior, Comfort and Exterior Design

The Essex Super Six captivates with period-correct details: wooden wheels, flowing lines, and the signature boat-tail rear on Sport Roadster variants. Interiors are usually minimalist but refined, focused on essential instrumentation and comfort for two occupants. High-quality examples benefit from careful restoration of upholstery and period materials. Optional features may have included specific paint finishes or special coachwork on higher-grade models. The exterior elegance, especially in the roadsters, remains a key appeal for enthusiasts looking for authentic 1920s-1930s American styling.

Other Features and Collector Notes

Many Essex Super Six models are held in private or museum collections due to their rarity, particularly the Sport Roadster. Some examples are tax-exempt (often mentioned as Motorrijtuigenbelasting: frei in period records). Participation in historic events and classic car shows is common, with many owners prize-winning at concours or regional meets. The model's legacy as part of Hudson's pre-war development makes it particularly relevant to American and early Hudson collectors.

Summary

The Essex Super Six is a rare pre-war American automobile, valued for its robust mechanical engineering and elegant, distinctive design—most notably in its scarce Sport Roadster Boat-Tail variant. With original and modified examples offering a genuine taste of 1920s–1930s motoring, the Super Six appeals to collectors seeking authenticity, history, and craftsmanship in a car that defined an era for Essex and early Hudson. On the classic vehicle market, it commands significant attention due to its very limited supply and complete market share within the Essex marque today.