The DeSoto brand had been a Chrysler staple since 1928. But by the time the late 1950s arrived, declining sales pointed to one too many divisions at Chrysler Corp. That was also part of the problem with Edsel over at Ford, which came and went in the blink of an eye. Just a few weeks after Chrysler unveiled its 1961 lineup, the word came down that DeSoto was done. That resulted in just 911 2-door hardtops like the seller’s sweet Glacier White example. Located with a dealer in Cleveland, Ohio, this survivor (except for one repaint) looks as solid as they come at 73,000 miles. It’s available here on eBay for $37,900 OBO. An attaboy goes to T.J. for the tip!
With the recession of 1958, DeSoto began to simplify its roster. By 1961, there were no model names anymore. You could only choose from a 2-door hardtop or a 4-door sedan with a 361 cubic inch V8 and a pushbutton automatic transmission. And you got tailfins galore which we’re going to be trimmed back on the rest of Chrysler in 1962. Slanted headlights were the order of the day across full-size Chryslers (that excluded the Imperial, which was a separate brand).
The body and paint on this DeSoto are not museum quality, but good enough to qualify for “nicest one left” consideration. It has the rare Highway Hi-Fi music “system” and an original interior that seems to be without flaws except for a stain on the carpets. The AM radio is original but seems to have stopped working.
We’re told the machine performs well with 265 horses coming out of the V8. The DeSoto has an alternator, as Chrysler got ahead of the curve, swapping out from generators. The exhaust system and gas tank have both been replaced, so does that indicate the car was idle for a time?. If you’re looking for a vintage ride that’s bound to attract attention, is this final year DeSoto the right Mopar for you?
Nice space age styling – talk about going out with a bang!
Rolling work of art. Stunning.
It looks like Chrysler threw every chrome gee-gaw and trim option at this thing, in a desperate attempt to save the brand, and all for naught. I happen to like it, I think it’s a bit ironic “911” were made. Be fun to know the story on this car, obviously and luckily, someone knew how rare it was destined to be. A lot of interest, and for good reason. People today don’t know the DeSoto story, or who Groucho Marx was, but it’s just the most unusual car most have ever seen, and will for a long time. And the best part, anyone can drive it. I think they were beautiful cars.
For that matter, DeSoto production ended with special orders still outstanding. Those were fulfilled with Chrysler Newports.
Damn, that thing is ugly
You must be one of those people that likes to drive a box on wheels,, this car is beutiful except for the hood grill, but at least you know what car was coming at you ,,unlike the cookie cutter crap on the road now
what an interesting look
As a member of the DeSoto club, this car receives my certificate of sure do like it. GLWTS.
DeSoto’s problem at this point was, it was only a slightly modified Chrysler. I remember when these came out in late 1960, and I first saw one: GAG-UGLY!!! And my opinion has not changed since. Chrysler products were mostly hideous in one way or another, from 1957 through 1964 (with the exception of the 1962 Imperial and 1961 Dodges). When Chrysler styling came back to the real world in 1965, they began to build some handsome cars. This is one beautifully-preserved DeSoto: I’ll give it THAT. But considering the price, they could not even have the original radio restored to factory-new operation? At this price, it ought to be concours quality in every regard, with everything original working perfectly — like a showroom-new example! But you won’t see another one of THESE at the cars and coffee, or in the Wal☆Mart parking lot. I would not have gone NEAR it in 1961. But I would drive it with pride, NOW! Turn 1961 upside-down, and you still have 1961.
He’s found Chrysler products were my favorite cars style wise from the 1950s. They were striving for a space age. It’s just a shame that De Soto went away. Dodge went to far up market and Chrysler went to far down market so there was no more room for De Soto. This particular De Soto has the ugliest front end. I hate that oval Aaron, take above the grill that’s in the hood. It makes Edsel’s look attractive. And the brake lights mounted into the tailfins artist ugly. The rest of the car though is very attractive.
As a kid of about 11 in 1968, my parents took us to Georgia (from Virginia) to visit some of my Dad’s family. We visited his uncle who was in his late 60’s and drove one of these beauties. We all piled up comfortably in it and drove over to 6 Flags Over Georgia. I was amazed at how “space aged” this old guy’s car was but it made sense as he was a retired aerodynamics engineer. I especially remember how much fun it was to ride in and what a great day that was. My dad being a Mercury guy wasn’t all that impressed with the De Soto, but I sure was.
Some people may consider it fugly but I’m not in that group. Space age type beauty to me.
Hey, Rick W, where are you? We need your DeLovely DeSoto comments here. Hope you’re okay!
This car has presence! I’m not sure if I like or not. (and I grew up with my Dad owning 7 1957 Plymouths!) Even at a very young age. I considered the DeSoto an old man’s car. The only person I knew that had one was my uncle the funeral director/undertaker. He had one that was a limo? It has about an 1952 vintage. He only used it for people that wanted an old fashion funeral. I think he kept it until about 1980 or so. It’s very interesting but not enough to entice me.