1946 DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe Dimensions, Size & Specs

The DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe, with its length of 5265 mm (207.3 inches) and width of 1923 mm (75.7 inches), is quite large by modern compact car standards but fits comfortably within the typical dimensions of a standard residential garage. Most standard garages have widths around 2,400 mm (94 inches) and lengths about 6,000 mm (236 inches), meaning the coupe will fit with some space remaining for maneuvering or storage.

Standing at 1687 mm (66.4 inches) tall, the DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe has a moderate height for a coupe of its era. This height is well within the clearance of virtually all standard garages and parking structures, which typically allow at least 2,000 mm (79 inches) of clearance. This means owners don't have to worry about height restrictions when parking indoors.

At 1923 mm (75.7 inches) wide, the DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe was slightly wider than many passenger cars from the mid-1940s. This extra width contributed to a spacious cabin and a stable driving experience but made the coupe larger than more compact competitors. Its width reflects the American preference for roomy cars during that era compared to the narrower European models.

As a 3-passenger coupe, the DeSoto Deluxe was designed with comfort and luxury in mind for a small select number of occupants, typically featuring two front seats and a rear jump seat or a specialized bench seating arrangement. The overall generous exterior dimensions translate into a roomy interior with ample headroom and legroom, making it ideal for long drives. The focus was on quality materials and roomy comfort rather than maximizing passenger count.

With a length of 5265 mm (207.3 inches), the DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe is relatively long, which provides a smooth, stable ride but can make tight maneuvering and parking in crowded urban environments more challenging compared to smaller vehicles. Drivers of this era needed to be mindful of their car’s size, especially on narrow streets or in small parking spaces.

The 1946-1949 DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe follows the post-World War II redesign and is larger and more refined compared to its pre-war counterparts. Generally, the newer generation grew in length and width, reflecting advances in styling and passenger comfort. Its expanded dimensions offered significantly improved interior spaciousness and a more commanding exterior presence over the predecessor models produced before the war.

Compared to similar coupes from American manufacturers like Chevrolet, Ford, and Chrysler during the late 1940s, the DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe was on the larger side. Most competitors had lengths ranging from approximately 4700 mm to 5100 mm, making the DeSoto’s 5265 mm length a bit more substantial. The extra size translated into a more luxurious, spacious experience but slightly reduced agility in urban environments compared to smaller rivals.

The 1946-1949 DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe is distinguished by its Art Deco influenced styling, sweeping curves, and integrated fenders typical of late 1940s American cars. Notable features include a spacious two-door coupe layout, chrome detailing, wide stance, and a focus on passenger comfort. The emphasis on a luxurious interior paired with its substantial size made it a popular choice among buyers seeking classic American style with a personal, upscale driving experience.

The DeSoto Deluxe 3-Passenger Coupe holds historical significance as one of the first models produced by the brand after World War II, representing the American automotive industry's shift back from wartime production to civilian vehicles. Its design reflects postwar optimism with improved technology, comfort, and styling. The model was part of DeSoto's efforts to reestablish itself in the competitive full-size market segment, bridging prewar craftsmanship with modern postwar advancements.