In Pixar's Cars, which former Piston Cup champion does Doc Hudson portray?

Doc Hudson is portrayed as the Fabulous Hudson Hornet, a former Piston Cup champion, in Pixar's Cars.

Doc is a 1951 Hudson Hornet who hides his racing past while serving as Radiator Springs' doctor and judge. The name refers to the real Hudson Hornet, a car that became famous in stock-car racing during the early 1950s. In the film's history, Doc won three Piston Cups before a crash ended his racing career.

Doc's identity is revealed when Lightning McQueen discovers newspaper clippings and racing records. The revelation changes how Lightning sees the older residents of Radiator Springs and helps him understand that fame and speed are not the only measures of achievement.

Doc Hudson's voice was performed by Paul Newman, who had also been a successful race-car driver and co-founded the Newman/Haas racing team. This real-life connection made the casting especially memorable.