1951 DeSoto Custom Sedan
Hernando DeSoto was a Spanish Explorer who is credited to be the first European to cross the Mississippi. This momentous event is depicted in a massive work of art painted by William H. Powell, that hangs in the rotunda where the very few lie in state. Watch closely, and the next time they pan that room you'll see the painting.
From the Spanish explorer, to the blue highway wanderer from 1951 named after him, this original (so states the consigner) car for sale here at Classic Auto Mall. Virgil Exner a designer at Chrysler used the long sweeping lines, innovative use of chrome, and interior surfaces to die for, to create this design that was way ahead of its time, and gave the tri fives a real run for their money. Due to his work, born was the term "The Big Three" as his work kept Chrysler on the map.
Exterior
A very square sitting automobile, these two tones, total rust free, (and never had it) 4-Door Sedan presented in Dark Gray over Light Gray delineating at the roofline, shows in absolutely gorgeous condition. Panels are straight, gaps are very consistent, bumpers are original and very nice, grille is massive, and fat white side wall tires are the icing on the cake. From the helmeted DeSoto hood ornament, to the chrome strip divided windshield, all the way to the trunk of this car, there is little fault to find. Consigner states there has been a respray many years ago, but it does not look like it!
Interior
Very similar to the exterior in condition, this near perfect passenger area shows a front seat cushion that has 2 minor wear spots, and as for the back seat, it appears as though it has never been sat in. Headliner, side panels, and floor mats are in good condition, as headliner shows some marking which a bit of staining may be... and this is from 1951! A woodgrain veneer dash has a metal complimentary brown painted insert which houses round instrumentation in pristine condition. A 3 spoked stainless steering wheel in bakelite shows some cracking but is securely intact despite these cracks.
Drivetrain
A standard DeSoto flat inline 6-cylinder engine sits in the original engine bay. Engine appears to be unrestored, but consigner states this, the transmission, and drivetrain are 100%. Also need to mention the Tipomatic transmission shifts smoothly.
Undercarriage
Minor surface rust is seen in certain parts of the frame; however, it is very minor. New brakes have been recently installed, and exhaust system is very clean. A very simple but effective design can be seen throughout.
Car has been stored in winter, and driven sparingly in the summers, and spends its days off in a garage. Need to mention if one really wants to see the condition of this car, take a gander in the trunk... you'll see factory interior panels, and a very clean environment. If you are into big chrome, nice large round fenders, and plenty of stainless steel brite work, this neutral gray beauty deserves a look.
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 300 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.