Which real car model is the main basis for Doc Hudson in Pixar's Cars?

Doc Hudson is based mainly on a 1951 Hudson Hornet in Pixar's Cars.

The character's shape, name, and racing history connect him to the Hudson Hornet, a full-size American car introduced by the Hudson Motor Car Company. In the film, Doc is the retired Fabulous Hudson Hornet, a celebrated competitor whose career ended after a serious crash and whose identity is initially hidden from Lightning McQueen.

The real Hudson Hornet became famous in early stock-car racing. Drivers such as Herb Thomas and Marshall Teague achieved major successes with Hudsons, helping establish the model's performance reputation. That history gives Doc's backstory a foundation in a genuine chapter of American motorsport.

The model year is important: Doc is generally identified as a 1951 Hudson Hornet, not simply a generic vintage sedan. His fictional Piston Cup victories are invented for the Cars universe, but the car's design and racing inspiration draw from the real Hudson Hornet.