1951 DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan Dimensions, Size & Specs

With a width of 1908 mm (approximately 75.1 inches), the DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan offers a wide cabin that enhances passenger comfort by providing ample shoulder room. This broad stance contributes to stability on the road, offering better handling characteristics for a car of its size during the 1951-1952 production period. However, the wider footprint means that parking and maneuvering in tight urban environments could be more challenging compared to smaller cars. The width strikes a good balance between interior spaciousness and manageable road presence for its segment.

The vehicle stands 1660 mm (65.4 inches) tall, which is relatively tall compared to modern sedans but not unusual for cars of the early 1950s. This height contributes to a roomy interior headroom, enhancing passenger comfort, particularly for those sitting in the rear seats. From an aerodynamic perspective, the higher profile means the car experiences more air resistance at speed, typical for its era before aerodynamic optimization became a major focus. Additionally, the height gives the car an upright, stately appearance consistent with the styling trends of the time.

The 1951-1952 DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan has a ground clearance (ride height) of 210 mm (8.3 inches). This generous clearance is advantageous for driving on uneven or poorly maintained roads, helping to avoid damage from curbs or potholes. It also contributes to a more comfortable ride over rough surfaces. On the other hand, higher ground clearance can slightly compromise handling by increasing the vehicle's center of gravity, potentially leading to more body roll during cornering. Nevertheless, this setup was typical for full-sized sedans of that time, balancing comfort and practicality.

A standard garage typically measures around 6 meters (about 20 feet) in length and 3 meters (approximately 10 feet) in width. The DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan's length of 5290 mm (5.29 meters or 17.36 feet) and width of 1908 mm (1.91 meters or 6.27 feet) comfortably fits within these garage dimensions. Owners should still consider additional clearance space for opening doors and moving around the vehicle, but overall, the car fits well into a standard single-car garage without issue, making it suitable for typical residential storage.

While specific weight data for the 1951-1952 DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan is not provided, vehicles of this size and era generally weighed between 1700 to 2100 kg (approximately 3750 to 4625 lbs). The robust steel construction common in early 1950s American cars contributed to a heavier curb weight. The mass ensures a solid, stable feeling on the road and can improve ride comfort by dampening road vibrations. However, it may also affect fuel efficiency and acceleration, as heavier cars require more energy to move.

Compared to its predecessor, the earlier DeSoto Deluxe models from the late 1940s, the 1951-1952 Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan saw some dimensional updates. Typically, this generation maintained a similar footprint but may have grown slightly in length and width to accommodate more interior space and styling changes. The 5290 mm length and 1908 mm width represent a modernized and refined version focused on enhanced comfort and style, indicating a trend toward slightly larger full-size vehicles post-World War II. These incremental size increases were common as manufacturers competed on passenger comfort.

In the early 1950s, the DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan competed with other American full-size sedans like the Chrysler Windsor, Chevrolet Fleetline, and Ford Customline. Dimensionally, the DeSoto was on par or slightly larger, with its length of 5290 mm (208.3 inches) often exceeding or matching competitors. This gave it a strong market position for buyers seeking roomy, comfortable cabins. While the styling and engine choices differed, in terms of sheer size, the DeSoto Deluxe was competitive, reflecting the era's preference for large, roomy sedans that provided a premium feel without entering the luxury segment.

The DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan is a full-size sedan produced between 1951 and 1952, known for its distinctive combination of size, style, and utility. The 'Carry-All' designation hinted at its versatile interior design which was aimed at accommodating passengers comfortably while offering a generous cargo area. Its production during the early postwar period positioned it as a practical yet upscale choice, flaunting solid construction and the classic American design cues of the early 1950s. It was unique for pairing the durability expected in that era with a more spacious and comfortable ride.

While the DeSoto Deluxe II Carry-All Sedan is a large and spacious vehicle with dimensions measuring 5290 mm (208.3 inches) long and 1908 mm (75.1 inches) wide, these dimensions can pose challenges in today’s tight city traffic and parking conditions. Its relatively high ground clearance of 210 mm (8.3 inches) and solid build are advantageous off the beaten path and for cruising comfortably. However, its vintage construction, potential lack of modern safety features, and lower fuel efficiency might make it less practical for daily commuting compared to contemporary cars. Enthusiasts often reserve such cars for leisure driving or special occasions.