For Sale at Auction: 1952 DeSoto Custom in Owls Head, Maine

DeSoto is an American automobile marque that was manufactured and marketed by the DeSoto Division of the Chrysler Corporation from 1928 to the 1961 model year. The DeSoto marque was officially dropped November 30, 1960, with more than two million vehicles built since. The DeSoto Custom is an automobile produced by DeSoto from 1939 until the 1952 model year. While in production, the custom was DeSoto’s top-trim level car. The Custom shared its engine design with the Deluxe and was powered by Chryslers L-head 236.7 six-cylinder engine. Custom models produced during the 1946, 1947, 1948 and first half of the 1949 model years used DeSoto’s prewar bodies. A fully redesigned Custom was launched in the second half of 1949 and these cars are referred to as the “1949 Second Series” models. In total only 3,950 DeSoto Custom Convertibles were built in the 1951 and 1952 model years. With such low production numbers these cars are very difficult to find especially in concours restored condition. This 1952 DeSoto Custom Convertible is an excellent example. It’s currently the only 1952 DeSoto Custom Convertible listed in the National DeSoto Club Roster. This car spent its life on the West Coast. It was the subject of an extensive frame-off restoration that was truly a labor of love by its owner of over 20 years. The original color of Dusk Grey Metallic is truly remarkable and is complemented with a black convertible top. The car is dressed with white wall tires. The black leather with black stripe cloth interior is beautiful. It’s loaded with many features. The trunk compartment is very large and tastefully done. The engine compartment is very detailed and home to the original matching numbers L-head 6-cylinder engine. The engine was completely rebuilt and runs great. The engine is coupled to the original matching numbers Fluid Drive “Tip-Toe Shift” transmission. This transmission is very sophisticated and ahead of its time. The undercarriage is also very detailed and mirror quality. The exhaust system, steering system, braking system and suspension system was all rebuilt. This 1952 DeSoto looks, runs and drives excellently. It’s recently been completely serviced and detailed which is documented with an invoice. This car has won “Best in Class” at multiple concours car shows over the years. This is arguably one of the best examples of a 1952 DeSoto Custom Convertible in the world.