1952 – National DeSoto Club, Inc.

1952

Hemi! Available starting in February 1952, the first 8 cylinder in a DeSoto since 1931 was the big news of the year. With the Chrysler version (331 c.i.) having been released the previous year, DeSoto now had a 276 c.i. V-8 hemi in the line-up in addition to the reliable straight six. Buyers who opted for the new powerplant would receive an "8" emblem on the car to proudly designate what was underneath the hood (in May, a new "V-8" emblem was introduced to clarify it was not a straight 8). The new V-8 model (series S-17) would be named "Firedome" and was the main focus for advertisements and other publicity when it was finally introduced. Also no longer required were "floating power" mountings that were required for the six cylinders. With the new engine was also an announcement of the new FluidMatic Drive as an additional option for that series. FluidMatic Drive drew its oil for the torque converter from the engine crankcase via connecting galleries. A larger rear axle was employed as well for the new powerplant, which put out 50 horsepower more than the six cylinder.

The Custom and Deluxe series (designated S-15 or S15-C and S-15-1 or S15-S, respectively) were continued to represent the models offering the Powermaster Six engine, which was rated at 116 horsepower. The Custom models were standard with Tip-Toe Shift with Fluid Drive coupling, while the Deluxe models had that as an option over the standard manual transmission.

The body remained largely unchanged from 1951, with only a few minor modifications to the front end emblem, "DESOTO" letters, and rear tail lamps with integral back-up light lenses. Around November, ahead of the Firedome's introduction, the hoods were updated to include a small scoop and a wider medallion in place of the Hernando hood ornament and smaller emblem. First-time options introduced for this model year include tinted windshield and window safety glass, electric window lifts, and hydraulic power steering (Firedome only), the later of which would become very popular in the following years.

Powermaster Six engine: 251 c.i. 6 cylinder

Firedome Eight engine: 276 c.i. V-8 hemi

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

Los Angeles Deluxe VIN Start: 60013001

Los Angeles Deluxe VIN End: 60013651

Detroit Deluxe VIN Start: 6283601

Detroit Deluxe VIN End: 6288250

Los Angeles Custom VIN Start: 62032601

Los Angeles Custom VIN End: 62036371

Detroit Custom VIN Start: 50230101

Detroit Custom VIN End: 50261940

Los Angeles Firedome VIN Start: 64001001