I'm on the fence. I really am. Do I follow the traditional formula and run a Flathead Ford V8 in my 30 Model A roadster? Or do I stray from the norm and dare to be a little different and run a 308 Hudson Hornet Flathead Straight 6. Some factors influencing my decision: I have a 308 on the engine stand at home that needs a full rebuild. It would be different and pound for pound the Hudson 6 offers a lot more bang for the buck in estimated speed and performance to dollar ratio. And believe me, cost is most definitely a factor. I have an opportunity to purchase a 3 Port Offy intake with Strombergs and linkage for a very fair price for an 8BA Flathead. I think I know where I can get a non-running 8BA in trade that would also need a full rebuild. A flathead Ford in a Model A is a no-brainer for following the roots of hot rodding. It looks fantastic, sounds unbelievable and has some serious history going for it. It also costs a small fortune to build one from what I can gather. On the other hand, the Hudson 308 is a flathead with its own glorious history. It is a vintage engine you really don't see every day, but it is a vintage flathead. And while it is arguably not as aesthetically pleasing as a dressed up Ford, I think they are purdy and the sound gives me goosebumps too. Yes, it would require lengthening the frame. So, with those factors in mind, what would you choose?
I understand the history and performance of the Hudson motor are tempting, but the engine is the wrong shape for a Model A. You will end up with either a substantially stretched hood, or a big intrusion into an already-small cockpit. Maybe both. Could be a lack of imagination on my part, but I don't see any way it comes out as balanced and handsome as an A-V8.
I'm fond of FH Fords but when I was a kid in the 50s those Hudsons tore up the race tracks in this part of the country. There's a pasture not to far from me where there are half buried shells of Hudsons that were canabalized for their mechanical parts by this local hero racer. He was a constant winner with his Hudson FH sixs.
I have driven both. The Hudson a '51 with the export package and some ford flatties. The Ford is more traditional as engines go but the Hudson is a bear. I'd do the Hudson just to bother the trad police well that and it is a bear.
Thanks a lot for the input guys - the Ford is pulling ahead steadily in the polls, but there are still a few days for the Hudson lovers to chime in with their thoughts. I am still on the fence but really appreciate the thoughtful answers. Maybe I could throw together a potential photo-chop of how each would hopefully look like.
I'm a ford guy through and through... but I'd run the crap out of that hudson 6 as well. 6 to one, half a dozen to the other.
I'm no Ford flathead lover, boat anchors in my book, but thats my vote for all the reasons AnimalA gave.
Dare to be different, it all depends on the style of car you are building, eg on a lakes styled car a slightly longer hood and nosecone could do wonders, follow your heart my friend after all it is your car.
From what I've heard, an 8BA (which is longer than a 59A) is still a problem to fit into a Model A because of length. I gotta believe the Hudson is a bit longer than the 8BA. Sounds like you will need a BIG shoehorn. Do you perhaps have the overall length of both engines?
While I really like the 8BA I'm building for my roadster, I'd prefer something different, like your 6 cyl. Hudson
Just to say you're running a hudson straight 6 to someone will leave you with a warm and fuzzy proud feeling for sure. You'll probably regret it in the future if you don't use it for SOMETHING, roadster or otherwise.
ford is my choice. while the 'bird in the hand' is tempting and would be different, it represents an awful lot of additional work to install and debug chassis issues. I do not think the extra fabrication effort would be worth it, and adding those two extra cylinders up front is likely to take away from the generally good proportions of the existing car. If you are going to run with fenders, do not even think about using the Hudson.
The Hudson 308! Just remember, if you ask the masses, and follow their suggestions, you'll be just like the masses! Gonna repeat it for ya!
Man - 70% of the voters voted Ford... But there is a lot of love for the Hudson too. Tough call. Would it help to imagine this without fenders, channeled on an A frame? I do not have the overall length of an 8BA, but I can almost guarantee its a LOT shorter than the Hudson. Thanks to all for their votes, but especially for their thoughts in the posts.
Sam..have you located a trans for the hudson?...what is the break down in cost in rebuilding the hudson?..the hudson is different...but is it practical?..and will you even be able to get out of the way of a dodge neon with that motor?.third..since i sold my 8ba..trans..and rear end for a simple 800.00 now im kicking my self ..i have located 2 flathead guys here in maine with all the used speed equipt. you could imagine...send me a pm <input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setTimeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">
in addition..what is wrong with the motor and drive train that came with your roadster?..why not use what you have if your on a tight budget.. <input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setTimeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">
I have the original trans with overdrive for the 308. Some people say it is a great transmission, others say otherwise. I definitely want to have 3 pedals - it is a hot rod after all. I get the impression there are a few options for the Hudson as far as transmission adapters go.
Although the Hudson is 'Dare to be Different', you might be going over the cliff with this one. Think about how much more fun a Ford V8 is --so many different part combinations!
I vote for the Ford and there are a lot more parts for the flattys out there than Hudsons. Availibility means a lot when your out on the road and have a problem. Building a normal flatty is no more expensive than ano other motor but going all the way is pricey as hell.
I'm asking honestly but what could I expect for horsepower/torque with a modest rebuild of a stock V8? Early V8s were 90 horses, right? With some speed goodies, Merc crank and rods and pistons, I could expect, what, 110hp. or so? I'm trying to learn as I go and everything I know about Ford Flatheads is from what I've read and what the graybeards choose to share. I appreciate the education.
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