1949 DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan (Second Series) Dimensions, Size & Specs

With a width of 1862 mm (73.3 inches), the DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan was wider than many standard sedans of the late 1940s. This width contributed to enhanced interior shoulder room and stability, providing a comfortable driving and passenger experience. The expansive cabin space was one of DeSoto's strengths compared to competitors, where widths often ranged between 1700 mm to 1800 mm (67 to 71 inches). This made the DeSoto Deluxe one of the roomier sedans on the market during its production.

The height of the 1949-1950 DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan measures 1687 mm (66.4 inches). This relatively tall stance provides good headroom inside the cabin for both front and rear passengers. The increased height also enhanced visibility for the driver, contributing to a safer driving experience. However, the sedan’s height means it has a larger vertical space requirement, which could affect garage storage or low-clearance entryways compared to lower sports or compact cars.

Standard garage sizes vary but generally range around 2440 mm (8 feet) in width and 5180 mm (17 feet) in length. The DeSoto Deluxe, measuring 1862 mm (73.3 inches) wide and 5253 mm (206.8 inches) long, is slightly longer than a typical single-car garage length, which might require careful parking or garages with extended length. The width would comfortably fit in most garages. Height at 1687 mm (66.4 inches) poses no issue. Owners may need to verify garage dimensions, especially length, to ensure a comfortable fit for this classic sedan.

Compared to the previous generation (which was produced before 1949), the 1949-1950 DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan generally saw an increase in length and slight adjustments in width and height. The new dimensions at 5253 mm (206.8 in) length, 1862 mm (73.3 in) width, and 1687 mm (66.4 in) height reflect a trend towards more spacious and comfortable passenger vehicles, prioritizing interior room and road presence. This generation had a more modern streamlined design and improved cabin space, enhancing the car’s appeal versus its immediate predecessors which tended to be more compact.

Given its exterior dimensions—5253 mm long, 1862 mm wide, and 1687 mm tall—the DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan offers generous interior space typical of late 1940s American sedans. The wide body allows for ample shoulder and hip room for passengers both front and rear, while the tall height ensures comfortable headroom. The deep passenger compartment was designed to easily accommodate six adults in a three-across bench seating arrangement. Its spacious interior was a key selling point, making it ideal for families or those requiring luxury and comfort on longer drives.

In comparison to similar sedans from the late 1940s such as the Chrysler Windsor or the Plymouth Special Deluxe, the DeSoto Deluxe was broadly competitive in size. Its length of 5253 mm (206.8 inches) was similar to or slightly larger than many competitors, while its width of 1862 mm (73.3 inches) gave it a notably wide cabin. These proportions allowed the DeSoto Deluxe to stand out for offering a roomy and comfortable passenger area. While some competitors leaned towards slightly smaller and lighter vehicles, DeSoto maintained a balance between size, comfort, and road presence.

Though precise curb weight can vary by specific trim and options, a 1949-1950 DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan generally weighed between approximately 1700 kg to 1800 kg (3750 to 3968 lbs). This substantial weight was typical for full-size American sedans of the era, influenced by the robust steel construction and size of the vehicle. The weight contributed to a solid, stable ride characteristic but also affected fuel consumption and acceleration compared to lighter cars. Owners could expect a well-built vehicle, though newer cars would improve in weight efficiency decades later.

The 1949 DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan typically came equipped with Chrysler's well-known inline six-cylinder or V8 engines, depending on model specifications. These engines delivered smooth and reliable performance suitable for the luxury sedan segment of that era. Power output ranged roughly between 110 to 135 horsepower, providing adequate acceleration and cruising ability for city and highway driving conditions. The performance emphasized comfort and reliability rather than sporty driving, consistent with the car's size and luxury positioning.

The DeSoto Deluxe 4-Door Sedan, with its spacious interior and comfortable ride, was highly practical for daily use and family transportation in its time. Its wide body and long wheelbase offered excellent passenger comfort for up to six occupants, along with a large trunk for luggage or groceries. However, compared to modern vehicles, considerations like fuel efficiency, parking ease, and maneuverability might be less advantageous today. Still, for mid-20th-century families wanting style, space, and reliability, the Deluxe was a great choice.