1942 – National DeSoto Club, Inc.

1942

With WWII right around the corner and raw materials already becoming short in supply, the 1942 models (S10-S Deluxe and S10-C Custom) were in production just a short while and are one of the rarer years of DeSoto. Though not many were made before production was cut short (cut-off of civilian car production was officially February 9, 1942), they are very well-known for the one-year-only hidden headlights, an idea previously appearing on the 1936-37 Cord. The headlight doors were operated by a lever under the dash, which also turned on the lights in one motion.

Complimenting the obvious hidden headlamps, the grille consisted of a broad expanse of vertical curved bars. This front end look appeared briefly as it did not reappear when production resumed at the end of 1945 with the 1946 models. Updated from 1941, besides the front end, was the bore and stroke of the 6 cylinder engine, resulting in a growth in displacement from 228 to 237 and a decent bump in horsepower from 105 to 115. Also updated was a new transparent hood ornament that could be lit up and also wrap-around bumpers.

Engine: 237 c.i. 6 cylinder, 115 hp

Wheelbase: 121.5 inches (standard), 139.5 (7+ passenger cars)

Deluxe VIN Start: 6142001

Deluxe VIN End: 6153101

Custom VIN Start: 5771001

Custom VIN End: 5783503

Production Numbers

Deluxe 4-Door 6-Passenger Sedans Produced: 6,463

Deluxe 4-Door Town Sedans Produced: 291

Deluxe 4-Door 7-Passenger Sedans Produced: 49

Deluxe Club Coupes Produced: 1,968

Deluxe 2 Door Sedans Produced: 1,781