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1952 DeSoto Six Custom: A Testament to Post-War Automotive Elegance

With the dust of World War II settling, the 1952 DeSoto Six Custom emerged as a beacon of American automotive resurgence. Born from the assembly lines of the DeSoto division of Chrysler, this vehicle was a testament to the era's innovation and style. The DeSoto brand, established in 1928 by Walter P. Chrysler, had become synonymous with mid-priced quality cars, and the '52 Custom was no exception. It stood out not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its engineering prowess, marking a significant chapter in the history of post-war motoring.

Design and Innovation

The 1952 DeSoto Six Custom boasted an exterior that was both stately and sleek, with fluid lines that suggested motion even at a standstill. Its chrome grille, complete with a stylized version of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto's bust, was flanked by rounded fenders and crowned with a hood ornament that was as much a work of art as it was a branding emblem. Inside, passengers were treated to an opulent environment where plush fabrics met wood grain accents, reflecting the era's fascination with luxury. Technological advancements were evident in features like the "Tip-Toe Shift" Fluid Drive transmission, which allowed for smoother transitions between gears—a novelty for the time. Color options ranged from conservative hues like Gunmetal Gray to more vibrant tones such as Seaspray Green, with the latter often catching the eye of enthusiasts and onlookers alike. Among body styles, the four-door sedan stood out for its spaciousness and comfort.

Historical Significance

The 1952 DeSoto Six Custom didn't just carry passengers; it carried the aspirations of a generation looking towards a brighter future. It distinguished itself from competitors through its blend of affordability and luxury, offering features typically reserved for higher-end models. This approach would influence industry standards, gradually blurring the lines between luxury and mainstream vehicles.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay a robust inline-six engine that propelled the DeSoto with commendable vigor for its class. While top speed figures hovered around 85 mph—a modest number by today's standards—the car's acceleration was brisk enough to satisfy the needs of contemporary drivers. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing road imperfections with grace while maintaining composure on winding roads. Drivers often praised the harmonious symphony of engine sounds that accompanied each journey—a mechanical melody unique to this classic.

Ownership Experience

The 1952 DeSoto Six Custom found its place in various roles ranging from dependable family transport to a dignified presence at local car shows. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, though some components—like any vintage vehicle—required regular attention to maintain peak performance. Accessibility to parts and ease of repair made it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who preferred hands-on maintenance.

Fun Facts

This classic has graced both small-town roads and silver-screen productions alike, adding to its cultural cachet. While not known for setting records in speed or sales, it has held a special place in the hearts of collectors who cherish its unique combination of style and simplicity.

Collector's Information

Today, estimating production numbers remains challenging due to limited records; however, it is believed that tens of thousands were produced during its run. As for value range, well-preserved examples can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on condition and originality—reflecting an appreciation trend among classic car aficionados.

Conclusion

The 1952 DeSoto Six Custom is more than just an old car; it's a rolling piece of history that encapsulates the optimism and ingenuity of post-war America. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents an era when cars were built with pride and passion—a true gem in the crown of automotive heritage.

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-3/8" bottom O.D-BN 7Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-3/8" bottom O.D., 1-3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM 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

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair-HR 14Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Door Lock Pad. 1-3/8" O.D. Each-MP 551-CDoor Lock Pad. 1-3/8" O.D. Each

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Tailgate Pads, for Station Wagons. 6-5/8" wide X 5" long-MP 551-DTailgate Pads, for Station Wagons. 6-5/8" wide X 5" long. Pair R&L

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Trunk Hinge Pads. For Station Wagon-MP 663-NTrunk Hinge Pads. For Station Wagon. 3-5/8" wide X 8-3/4" long. Set

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Tail Gate Handle Pad. 2-3/4" wide X 5-7/8" long-MP 663-OTail Gate Handle Pad. 2-3/4" wide X 5-7/8" long. For Station Wagon. Each

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Back-Up Light Pads. For Station Wagon-MP 663-PBack-Up Light Pads. For Station Wagon. 4-3/4" wide X 5" long. Pair

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Tail-light Pads. 6-5/8" wide X 5" long. Pair-MP 663-QTail-light Pads. 6-5/8" wide X 5" long. Pair

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Door Handle Pads. For Station Wagon-MP 663-RDoor Handle Pads. For Station Wagon. 1-1/2" wide X 2-3/4" long. Pair

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Cowl Vent Seal. 3-1/2" wide X 17" long. Each-RP 100-PCowl Vent Seal. 3-1/2" wide X 17" long. Each

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM 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

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Rear Roll-Up Side Quarter Window Seals. Each piece 15" long-VS 3-BRear Roll-Up Side Quarter Window Seals. Each piece 15" long. Pair R&L

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Rigid division-bar run channel-WC 31-96Rigid division-bar run channel. Made with very soft felt lining. Used on front and rear door side windows. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Rear Vent Window Seals. Replaces OEM #1243378. Pair R&L-WR 2302-RRear Vent Window Seals. Replaces OEM #1243378. Pair R&L

1952 DeSoto SIX CUSTOM Front Vent Window Seals-WR 2704Front Vent Window Seals. For all convertibles and '50-'52 2-door hardtops. Pair R&L