For sale in our Orlando showroom is a 1951 Desoto Deluxe . Like most American auto manufacturers, Plymouth and DeSoto returned to peacetime projects after World War II with somewhat upgraded 1942 models, though in DeSotoâ??s case the changes were fairly significant. For one, the 1946 DeSoto lost the handsome hidden headlights, which meant front fenders had to be reworked, and the waterfall grille was modified to incorporate park lights. Rear fenders covered more of the wheels, and bumpers were wrapped further around. Mechanically, some wartime expertise was incorporated by including new aluminum pistons and a rotary oil pump with airplane oil filtration for the traditional 236 cubic inch, 109-bhp L-head six-cylinder engine. A three-speed transmission was standard, but the buyer could vouch for an optional fluid drive, otherwise known as the Tip-Toe Hydraulic Shift. The four Deluxe and seven Custom models would change little in the next three years, until the full-width body was introduced during the 1949 model year in December. Sales had risen steadily, with 62,368 cars in 1946, 82,232 in 1947 and 93,369 sold in 1948. The most monumental model in this period was the ubiquitous taxi, seen in every musical at the time. In the Deluxe line, 11,600 taxis were delivered in 1948, and would remain in service for years. For 1951 and 1952 the taxi business continued to be a strong part of the DeSoto Deluxe line with 3,550 long wheelbase California taxicabs sold. The big news for 1952 was Chryslerâ??s launch of the DeSoto Firedome series with a 276 cubic inch Hemi V-8. In 1953, the Deluxe and Custom lines would be dropped in favor of the V-8 Firedome and six-cylinder Powermaster. This Deluxe is equipped with the Tip Toe Hydraulic shift which was not a common option back in the day. This Desoto has been equipped with air conditioning as well to make the drive more comfortable. The mileage on this vehicle is purported to be original to the vehicle and not rolled over. Located in our Orlando Showroom this 1951 Desoto Deluxe can be seen including HD pictures and videos at www.GatewayClassicCars.com. For additional information please call 407-771-2000 or
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