Doc Hudson is the Cars character known as the Fabulous Hudson Hornet.
The Fabulous Hudson Hornet is Doc’s former racing identity. In the film’s backstory, he wins three Piston Cups before suffering a serious crash. After returning to racing, he is treated as outdated and eventually leaves the circuit, settling in Radiator Springs.
The character draws on the real Hudson Hornets that competed successfully in early stock-car racing. Hudson drivers won the first three NASCAR Grand National championship seasons, from 1951 through 1953. The real cars were known for their “step-down” design and strong performance on tracks and roads.
Doc’s history explains both his bitterness toward racing and his ability to coach Lightning McQueen. He understands the demands of competition but also knows that trophies and publicity do not define a racer’s whole life. Paul Newman provided Doc’s English voice.