Which Hudson Hornet driver inspired Doc Hudson in Pixar's Cars?

Herb Thomas inspired Doc Hudson in Pixar's Cars.

Doc Hudson is a 1951 Hudson Hornet and a former racing champion who becomes Lightning McQueen's mentor. His character draws on the real Hudson Hornet's importance in early NASCAR, particularly the success of driver Herb Thomas.

Thomas drove a Hudson Hornet to NASCAR championships in 1951 and 1953. The real car became famous for its performance, including the “Fabulous Hudson Hornet” nickname associated with Thomas. Pixar adapted that racing history into Doc's backstory, while making Doc a fictional character with his own career and relationship to Radiator Springs.

Doc should not be confused with later NASCAR legends such as Richard Petty or Dale Earnhardt. Those drivers are associated with different eras and vehicles. Doc's historical inspiration is specifically tied to Herb Thomas and the Hudson Hornet, making Thomas the precise answer to this question.