1934
The new Airflow SE model for 1934 was arguably the most radical new design in all of DeSoto's history. The first car to make use of wind tunnels and aerodynamics, the Airflow was a revolutionary design, both in terms of styling and engineering. Engineers Owen Skelton, Carl Breer, and Fred Zeder, nicknamed the Three Musketeers, conducted wind tunnel tests with Orville Wright in designing the Airflow. They realized that conventional boxy car design used in the industry was actually more aerodynamic when in reverse! The result was the groundbreaking Airflow shape and design, including the very rounded front end.
In addition to aerodynamics, the Airflow featured unibody construction that made for a stiffer body, improved passenger room, decreased road noise, better weight distribution, and was overall a solidly designed car. In fact, the car was so well-designed that a Chrysler Airflow was intentionally rolled down a hill just to prove that the doors still opened and closed as they should and that they could drive off in it with no significant damage. Inside the car, a Frieze material was used in the upholstery and the headliner was washable.
Unfortunately, for as well-designed as the Airflow was, the public was not ready to accept the radical new styling. Unlike Chrysler, who offered both the Airflow and Airstream (a more conventional design), DeSoto put all of their eggs in one basket with the Airflow as their stand-alone model. The lack of acceptance was reflected in a decrease in sales. In response, DeSoto would present an Airstream model of its own starting in 1935.
The Airflow Club of America is also a great resource for Airflow owners. Membership in both clubs is recommended.
Engine: 6-cylinder, 241.5 cubic inches, 100 hp
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Detroit Serial Number Start: 5068501
Detroit Serial Number End: 5082105
Windsor Standard Serial Number Start: 9603041
Windsor Standard Serial Number End: 9603434
Serial number sources: DeSoto Master Parts List, Airflow Club of America
Production Numbers
2-Door 5-Passenger Coupe: 1,584
2-Door 6-Passenger Brougham: 522
4-Door 6-Passenger Sedan: 11,713
4-Door Town Sedan: 119
Source: The Plymouth and DeSoto Story by Don Butler










