1947 DeSoto Custom Series

The United States automobile production ceased in February of 1942 due to the outbreak of World War II and the United States' involvement. Automobile manufacturers shifted to building items in support of the war effort. Domestic car production would not resume until after the War, beginning in March 1946. Instead of creating new products, manufacturers mildly updated their pre-war products and rushed them into production to meet consumer demand.

DeSoto models received new styling features with updated ornamentation and trim, new front fenders with exposed headlights, and a redesigned grille.

The 1946 DeSoto models were the entry-level Deluxe series, priced from $1,315 to $1,450, and the Custom selling for $1,480 to $2,200. Both models were equipped with a 236.7 cubic-inch L-head engine with 6.6:1 compression, solid valve lifters, a Ball and Ball carburetor, and four main bearings, and delivered 109 horsepower at 3,600 RPM. The Deluxe models used a three-speed manual transmission, while the Customs received a Gyrol Fluid Drive with Tip-Toe Shift four-speed transmission.

Both the Deluxe and the Custom rested on a 121.5-inch wheelbase. The Custom models also had a 139.5-inch platform for its suburban, sedan, and limousine - all with seating for eight passengers. The suburban joined the Custom line in November of 1946. Body styles on the Deluxe included a club coupe, coupe, and two- and four-door sedan. Body styles on the standard wheelbase Custom included a club coupe, convertible coupe, and a two- and four-passenger sedan.

Standard equipment on the Deluxe models included a cigar lighter, illuminated glove box with light, map light, dual outside door locks, dual two-speed electric wipers, dual sun visors, illuminated luggage compartment, door armrests, bumper guards, interior door locks, and directional signals with parking brake light.

Custom models had 'Custom' nameplates on the sides of the hood. The interiors featured tailored carpets, front seat cushions with a foam rubber pad, and chrome-plated window sashes. Standard equipment and amenities included Delon plastic upholstery, white plastic trim rings, and a plastic steering wheel. The broadcloth upholstery was available in green, blue, and tan colors. The convertible coupe used Bedford cor and leather.

DeSoto produced 62,368 vehicles for 1946, earning them 13th in the U.S. automobile production listing.

The 1946 DeSoto models were positioned between its Dodge and Chrysler siblings in regard to pricing. Styling between the three lines was similar, distinguishable mainly by the front grilles. Chrysler's lineup was more extensive, consisting of the Royal, Windsor, Saratoga, and New Yorker series with both a six- and eight-cylinder engine. The Six developed 114 horsepower, and the eight had 135 horsepower. Wheelbase sizes included a standard 121.5-inch and a longer 139.5-inch platform (the same as the DeSoto).

The 1946 Dodge model lineup included the Deluxe and Custom, and power was from a 230 CID inline-six with 102 horsepower. Dodge's wheelbase sizes were 119.5- and 137.5-inches. The total 1946 calendar year production for Dodge was 156,148 units.

1947 DeSoto
Very few changes were applied to the 1947 model line, with prices remaining similar (albeit with slight increases), styling the same, and engine components unchanged. Whitewall tires became optional following April of 1947.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2020