1951 – National DeSoto Club, Inc.

1951

Production for the 1951 model year was down throughout the industry, partially due to the Korean War efforts and also partially due to the general post-boom decrease from the previous years. DeSoto faired okay, taking a small loss but moving up the ranks compared to some of its competitors (Hudson and Kaiser-Frazer) that fell harder. During this model year, DeSoto facilities were also supporting the manufacturing of afterburners for Pratt & Whitney J-48 jet aircraft engines.

Changes for the DeSoto automobile in 1951 included a slight increase in the stroke of the six cylinder engine to help raise horsepower from 112 to 116. Oriflow shock absorbers were one of the most notable new chassis features. Outside the car, a slight rework of the hood nose (including shortening of the hood ornament) and reshaped front fenders, combined with larger bumpers and guards, added a slight bit of length and changed overall appearance from the previous year. Side trim was also slightly more limited, a side effect of war. All those cosmetic changes, however, could easily be overlooked at first glance by the addition of a big toothy grill, which would become a staple of DeSoto for the next four model years to come.

Engine: 251 c.i. 6 cylinder

Wheelbase: 125.5 (standard, including wagon), 139.5 (8 & 9-passenger sedans)

Los Angeles Deluxe VIN Start: 60011001

Los Angeles Deluxe VIN End: 60012889

Detroit Deluxe VIN Start: 6269001

Detroit Deluxe VIN End: 6283459

Los Angeles Custom VIN Start: 62024001

Los Angeles Custom VIN End: 62032486

Detroit Custom VIN Start: 50155001

Detroit Custom VIN End: 50230003

Production Numbers

Deluxe 4-Door 6-Passenger Sedans Produced: *13,506