Vehicle Description
At the 1934 edition of the New York Auto Show, Chrysler Corporation
surprised onlookers with the introduction of the revolutionary
Airflow series. At a time when the carriage-building roots of car
design were still very much apparent, Chrysler's wholly
unconventional, aerodynamic sedans and coupes looked as though they
came from another planet. Not only was the styling a revelation,
but its construction introduced advanced new principles not yet
seen in the automobile industry. The genesis of the Airflow began
back in 1930, when Chrysler engineers Carl Breer, Fred Zeder and
Owen Skelton (known as "The Three Musketeers") began experimenting
with wind tunnel testing of streamlined scale models. Their goal
was to create the most efficient shape possible for an automobile,
even going so far as to consult with the pioneering aviator,
Orville Wright. More than merely a styling exercise, every aspect
of the Airflow's design and construction was carefully considered
for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. The engineers realized that
unitary construction would be much lighter and more rigid than a
traditional body-on-frame design. In turn, that allowed them to use
lighter springs for a more comfortable ride, and with less wind
resistance, standard engines could push the car to higher speeds.
Thanks to the lighter body, the engine could be moved further
forward, allowing for a more spacious cabin and better weight
distribution with four passengers on board. Quiet, comfortable, and
efficient, the Airflow indeed was The Car of Tomorrow. Chrysler
threw a tremendous amount of resources at the project, offering
both Chrysler and shorter wheelbase DeSoto models. Such was their
confidence, Chrysler dedicated the entire 1934 DeSoto lineup to
Airflow-based cars. As with many groundbreaking designs, the buying
public was slow to accept such a radically different automobile,
even going so far as to question its safety. The dramatic styling
was perhaps too advanced for the time, and despite initial positive
reaction, production problems with the unitary body caused delays
and quality issues, and the Airflow seemed doomed from the start.
Chrysler tried to save face with a series of redesigns that better
conformed to mainstream styling at the expense of the original
drama. Fearing slow sales, DeSoto added the conventional Airstream
to the line in 1935. Today, with the benefit of eighty-five years
of hindsight, we see the significance and far-reaching influence of
the Airflow. While it was a relative commercial failure, it was at
least a decade ahead of its time. The principals of drag reduction,
unitary construction, and weight distribution that were so
carefully considered by Breer, Zeter, and Skelton are fundamental
aspects of car design today, and we can thank the Airflow and its
brilliant designers for forging that path. Today, the car they
created by the Three Musketeers defies its former reputation,
standing as one of the most important American cars of the 1930s.
Presented with a well-preserved older restoration, this 1935 DeSoto
SG Airflow 5-passenger coupe is a fetching example of Chrysler
Corporation's cutting-edge streamliner. 1935 marked the second year
of production for the Airflow, distinguished by a revised grille
treatment, proudly topped with a goddess mascot. Out of a total of
6,797 so-called "Series II" DeSoto Airflows built in 1935, a mere
418 featured this pretty two-door coupe body. The restoration was
well executed and thoroughly maintained in excellent condition. The
paint, believed to be the factory-correct shade of Gargoyle Gray
Poly, shows nicely with a consistently glossy finish, and just a
few minor touch-ups and imperfections found on close inspection.
The chrome and exterior brightwork are outstanding, with nice
straight bumpers and high-quality, finely maintained plating on the
intricate grille. Thanks to the inherent strength of the all-steel
Airflow body shell, the panel fit remains excellent, and the doors
open and close with satisfying precision. Although classified as a
mid-market car compared to the more luxurious Chryslers, DeSoto's
SG Airflow still feels considerably more upscale than competitors
thanks to the generous, chair-like seats and well-insulated
passenger compartment. With no wood joints to flex and squeak, the
Airflow's plush cabin is remarkably quiet. Like the body, the
interior of our example presents in excellent condition, with the
fine quality restoration aging gracefully. Attractive tan fabric
upholstery is clean, taut and appears in excellent order. The
distinct front seats feature exposed chrome framing. Carpets,
headlining, door panels and interior fittings are in similarly
excellent condition. The dash features lovely original instruments,
and options include a heater and a roller blind for the rear
window. Power for the SG comes from a simple and robust flathead
inline six, displacing 241 cubic inches and producing around 100
horsepower, which was plenty to give the lightweight Airflow brisk
performance. Good quality paint finishes, and proper hardware and
hose clamps lend a tidy, period-correct presentation. These engines
are famously bullet-proof, and this example runs very well, sending
power through a 3-speed synchromesh transmission. In its day, the
Airflow was misunderstood and blighted by public misinformation.
Today, however, we recognize it as one of the most important cars
of its time. Particularly in DeSoto guise, it remains a tremendous
value: An approachable, friendly classic that encourages regular
enjoyment. Few vehicles in history pushed the boundaries of
convention quite like the Airflow, and this charming 1935 DeSoto
Coupe represents an outstanding value in the world of pre-war
collectible motorcars.