Image of 1936 Desoto Airflow Iii, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Unveiling the 1936 DeSoto Airflow III: A Leap into the Future of Automotive Design

Stepping into the limelight with an audacious silhouette that challenged the conventions of its era, the 1936 DeSoto Airflow III was a car that dared to be different. Born from the creative minds at Chrysler Corporation's DeSoto Division, this vehicle emerged during a period of technological transition and economic uncertainty. The Airflow was not just a car; it was Chrysler's bold statement about the future of automotive travel. Interestingly, despite its innovative design, it faced resistance from a market unprepared for such a radical departure from traditional styling.

Design and Innovation: The Shape of Things to Come

The exterior of the DeSoto Airflow III was nothing short of revolutionary. Its streamlined body, with teardrop curves and a grille that seemed to blend seamlessly into the front end, was designed with aerodynamics in mind—a concept that was ahead of its time. Inside, passengers were treated to an unprecedented level of comfort, with high-quality fabrics and spacious seating arrangements that defied the cramped conditions typical of cars from that era. Technologically, it boasted features such as built-in airflow systems and unit-body construction, which enhanced both safety and ride quality. While color options were limited by today's standards, choices like Gunmetal Grey and Airflow Blue remained popular among buyers. The sedan variant stood out as the iconic body style, encapsulating the essence of this forward-thinking design.

Historical Significance: A Visionary's Gamble

The DeSoto Airflow III's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It introduced concepts such as aerodynamic efficiency and passenger comfort that would only become industry standards decades later. This car set itself apart with its emphasis on a scientific approach to design, which contrasted sharply with the aesthetic-driven models of its contemporaries. Its legacy is one of innovation and inspiration, even if its commercial success did not reflect its pioneering spirit.

Performance and Handling: Ahead of Its Time

On the road, the 1936 DeSoto Airflow III delivered a performance that matched its avant-garde looks. Although exact figures are elusive, anecdotal evidence suggests that its top speed and acceleration were competitive for its class. The car's handling was also commendable; it navigated bumps and windy conditions with grace thanks to its advanced suspension system. Driving an Airflow was an experience—a symphony of mechanical harmony where the hum of the engine complemented a ride quality that felt years ahead of its time.

Ownership Experience: Rarity on Today's Roads

Originally envisioned as an everyday vehicle for the discerning motorist, today the DeSoto Airflow III is a treasured showpiece for collectors or a rare sight at vintage racing events. Maintenance can be challenging due to scarce parts and specialized knowledge required for repairs. However, those who own one take pride in preserving a piece of automotive history.

Fun Facts: The Airflow's Unique Legacy

The DeSoto Airflow has been surrounded by trivia throughout its existence—rare editions have surfaced over time, including models with unique trim or custom features. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set benchmarks for design innovation. Criticisms were common during its production years, often focused on its unconventional looks rather than its engineering merits.

Collector's Information: A Prize for Patience

For collectors, acquiring a 1936 DeSoto Airflow III can be both challenging and rewarding. Estimates suggest that only a few thousand were produced, making each surviving example quite rare. As for value range, pristine models can fetch significant sums at auction—often well into six figures—reflecting their desirability among classic car enthusiasts. The market trend for these vehicles appears to be appreciating as they become recognized not just as cars but as artful expressions of a bygone era.

Conclusion: Celebrating an Automotive Iconoclast

The 1936 DeSoto Airflow III stands as a testament to innovation during an age when risk-taking in design was met with skepticism. Its story is one of ambition and vision—a car that reached into the future but remained misunderstood in its own time. For those who appreciate the blend of artistry and engineering prowess, the Airflow remains an enduring symbol of what happens when imagination takes the wheel.

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Door Jamb Bumper. Perfect reproduction-DB 36Door Jamb Bumper. Perfect reproduction. 1-1/16" high X 1-1/4" wide X 7/16" thick. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 31Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 18" long X 9-3/4" wide at bottom. Pair

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Windshield and Rear Window Seal. Sold by the foot-LP 30-AWindshield and Rear Window Seal. Sold by the foot

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Swing-Out & Crank-Out Windshield Seal. Sold by the foot-LP 97Swing-Out & Crank-Out Windshield Seal. Sold by the foot

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Door Lock Pad. 1-3/8" O.D. Each-MP 551-CDoor Lock Pad. 1-3/8" O.D. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Headlight Pads. 3-1/4" wide X 6-3/4" long. Pair R&L-MP 663-GHeadlight Pads. 3-1/4" wide X 6-3/4" long. Pair R&L

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Trunk Lock Pad. 1-3/4" wide X 3-1/8" long. Each-MP 663-HTrunk Lock Pad. 1-3/4" wide X 3-1/8" long. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Headlight Base to Fender Pads. 3" wide X 6" long. Pair-MP 663-JHeadlight Base to Fender Pads. 3" wide X 6" long. Pair

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 9-1/2" long. Set-MP 663-LTrunk Hinge Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 9-1/2" long. Set

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Cowl Vent Seal. Made of molded sponge-RP 100-LCowl Vent Seal. Made of molded sponge. 3-3/4" wide at side X 15-1/3" long X 3/8" thick. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Door Check Rubber Cushion. Each-RP 40-DDoor Check Rubber Cushion. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Rumble Seat Step Plate Pad. Rubber face only. 4-1/4" O.D-SP 17Rumble Seat Step Plate Pad. Rubber face only. 4-1/4" O.D. Each

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Rear Vent Window Seals. For 4-door sedan. Pair R&L-WR 2304-RRear Vent Window Seals. For 4-door sedan. Pair R&L

1936 DeSoto Airflow III Front Vent Window Seals. Molded to exact configuration-WR 2705Front Vent Window Seals. Molded to exact configuration. Pair R&L