In Pixar’s Cars, which retired racer does Doc Hudson reveal himself to be?

In Pixar’s Cars, Doc Hudson reveals himself to be the Hudson Hornet.

Doc is the town physician and judge in Radiator Springs, but he was once a celebrated race car. His past is revealed when Lightning discovers newspaper clippings showing that Doc was a three-time Piston Cup champion and the 1951 Rookie of the Year.

The Hudson Hornet was a real automobile model produced by Hudson Motor Car Company. The real car became famous in early stock-car racing, especially through drivers such as Herb Thomas. Pixar used that history as the foundation for Doc’s character and racing career.

Doc is voiced by Paul Newman, whose own career included major acting achievements and an interest in auto racing. The character is not the same as The King, who is Strip Weathers, or the Hudson Hornet’s modern racing rivals in the film.