1961 DeSoto Series RS1-L Hardtop Coupe

In late 1960, Chrysler Corporation abruptly canceled the DeSoto marque just 47 days after the 1961 new-model introduction. The 1961 DeSotos were offered in just one series, in either two or four-door hardtop models. The cars featured a canted headlamp treatment and a unique grille design with two stacked tiers, a horizontal front bumper, revised tail lamps, and updated body side trim.

The car was available with just one engine, a 361 cubic-inch V8 offering 265 horsepower and a 9.0:1 compression ratio. The cars were fitted with a pushbutton-operated TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission with a manual unique available as an option.

This example has just 39,000 miles and is one of just 911 two-door hardtop examples produced in 1961. Production ended on November 30, 1960. This car has had just two owners from new and has just one exterior refinish, and retains its original interior.

Original options on this vehicle include a heater, radio, power brakes, power steering, a windshield washer, variable-speed windshield wipers, an electric clock, and a set of wheel covers. Other options included air conditioning, a deluxe steering wheel, Solex glass, and undercoating.

In 2009, this example was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $40,000 - $60,000 and offered without reserve.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2009