1950 DeSoto Custom

DeSoto ranked 14th in U.S. production for 1950, and their lineup consisted of the Deluxe Series and the Custom Series. Still grappling with the effects of World War II, they introduced a mildly face-lifted lineup advertised as the 'New DeSoto.' Modifications were made to the ornamentation, grille textures, and rear fenders. Powering both the Deluxe and Custom series was an L-head six-cylinder engine displacing 236.7 cubic inches and offering 112 horsepower. The Deluxes had a three-speed manual transmission while the Customs were fitted with a Tip-Toe Hydraulic shift with Gyrol Fluid Drive. Deluxes could be fitted with this transmission for an additional $121.

The Deluxe and Custom were offered in standard and long-wheelbase sizes of 125.5- and 139.5 inches. The Custom Series body styles included a sedan, club coupe, Sportsman, Convertible Coupe, and Station Wagon. The most popular DeSoto body style for 1950 was the Custom 4-door Sedan which found over 72,660 buyers.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2018