DeSoto was one of the longest-running U.S. automobile nameplates (dating to 1928). But by the late 1950s, it had become clear that Chrysler had one too many brands to peddle. With demand shrinking at a similar pace as the ill-fated Edsel, 1960 would be the last year for the top-of-the-line Adventurer (and the division itself would finally fold a year later). The seller has a beautiful ’60 Adventurer 2-door hardtop that may need nothing more than a new home. Located in Waterford, Michigan, this winged wonder is available through a dealer here on Facebook Marketplace for $32,995. It’s one of just 2,759 produced in 1960.
The Adventurer began in 1956 as something of DeSoto’s version of the Chrysler Letter Series performance/luxury cars. Initially offered as a coupe, by its final year 4-door editions were added as style and function were emphasized over muscle (you could get Ram Induction if you had some fire in your belly). DeSoto cars were redesigned in 1960 as were all of Chrysler’s full-size transports and unit-body construction (aka unibody) took over the production process. A 383 cubic inch V8 was standard and would be a Mopar fixture for many years to come.
When I first saw this car, I thought it was the same one I profiled last year here on Barn Finds. What are the odds of two black 2-door 1960 Adventurers in the same region and State? But upon closer inspection, I changed my mlnd. Unless the earlier car has since been restored (and made $28,000 more expensive), they happen to be twins with different experiences while being in the time machine.
The selling dealer provides no history on this great piece of Americana. Sweet survivor or an older restoration? We don’t know. It’s 45,000 miles do suggest a babied survivor that may be one of the nicest of its kind left. The subject of originality is backed up by the lack of detail work done on the engine compartment and the “Grandpa” see-through seat covers that have kept the upholstery nice and tidy. We assume it runs as good as it looks and this Mopar should attract loads of attention when out on every “adventure.”
My Dad had this same model, but in white with red interior. He loved it, especially its power.
Definitely not the same as the earlier car, unless someone replaced that car’s power windows with cranks.
Cool find…maybe Groucho left a box of cigars in it.
Waterford Michigan. Ooo dats up dere near Bayport don’t ‘cha know, ya.
Close…..if 90 miles away qualifies!!!
Always liked these and may even prefer it to the Chrysler Windsor it’s based on. The dashboard may be borrowed from Dodge (no Chrysler AstraDome instrument panel here) but the taillights offer a unique take on the Chrysler “boomerangs.” Sad that the make was discontinued just a year later but by this time Chrysler wasn’t putting much effort into the brand. Wonder how many were built with Ram Induction.
Looks good but not under the hood.
Great DeSoto!
I love the “stacked” instrument cluster. So odd these days to see a generator, and the voltage regulator on the opposite fender.
Very cool looking car!
very poor under the hood. looks like 65 yrs of action
This is really nice…but the 1959 had some of the best fins of any car of that era!
I’ve ranted about those Delightful! Delovely! DeSotos and their unfortunate demise. This is a beauty IMO Second only to 61 DeSoto and 61 Imperial LeBaron, the grand finale for Exners fabulous finned fantasies for Chrysler. I think the number 2,759 must be for two doors. The final 61s scored 3,200. It’s another Waanna for me.
The engine compartment is a real let down in comparison to the rest of the car. Lots of surface rust, universal radiator hoses and lots of dried out wiring. This car deserves to have this corrected. It would make this beauty a real stunner with a restore under the hood. It’d be a worthwhile winter project. GLWTS.
Is it GONE? Someone got a real classic!