The 1930s car that gangsters loved for its speed and discreet, lightweight frame

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Launched during the Great Depression, the Terraplane was an inexpensive, powerful vehicle that captured the public's fascination with aviation. With a high horsepower-to-weight ratio, these cars became legendary for their acceleration and handling, eventually earning a reputation as the preferred getaway vehicle for notorious gangsters of the era.

Produced by the Hudson Motor Car Company between 1932 and 1938, the Terraplane was designed to replace the aging Essex line. Roy D. Chapin, the company's leader, sought to create a light, affordable car that combined comfort and style. The name itself was a deliberate marketing choice, intended to capitalize on the widespread public interest in aviation during the 1930s. The car was introduced with significant fanfare, featuring an endorsement from aviator Amelia Earhart and a launch event in Detroit attended by over 2,000 dealers.

The 1933 eight-cylinder model is particularly notable for its performance, as it was believed to possess the highest horsepower-to-weight ratio of any production car in the world at the time. This agility made it a favorite among criminals such as John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson, and John Paul Chase. Beyond its speed, the vehicle featured innovative 'Duo-Automatic' brakes, which provided a mechanical backup system in the event of a hydraulic failure. The car's prowess was further demonstrated in competitive hillclimbs and rallies, where it set numerous records.

While primarily a U.S. product, the Terraplane had a global footprint. Due to import restrictions, many vehicles were assembled abroad in countries including Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. In Britain, the Terraplane chassis even served as the foundation for the Railton luxury car brand. Despite its success, Hudson management eventually phased out the Terraplane name by 1938, partly because the car's popularity began to outshine the company's flagship Hudson models. Today, the vehicle remains a cultural touchstone, immortalized in Robert Johnson's 1936 song, 'Terraplane Blues'.

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