1934 DeSoto Airflow Sedan
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Artifact Overview
The Airflow offers a cautionary tale: incredibly well-engineered, with a shape developed using wind tunnel tests and an interior that incorporated new and durable material -- its sales were hugely disappointing. The design was too advanced for the public, at a time when the market was strained. However, its influence on the style of other cars began to appear almost immediately.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Automobile
Date Made
1934
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Manufactured by the DeSoto Division of Chrysler Corporation; based on a design by Carl Breer.
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
86.52.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Hardy W. Trolander.
Material
Steel (Alloy)
Metal
Glass (Material)
Rubber (Material)
Chromium
Color
Gray (Color)
Beige (Color)
Brown
Dimensions
Height: 66 in
Width: 70.25 in
Length: 196 in
Wheelbase: 115.5 in
Weight: 3378 lbs
Inscriptions
Plate above each headlight: DESOTO / CHRYSLER MOTORS / PRODUCT
Rear lights: DESOTO
Spare tire carrier: DESOTO
Plate on spare tire carrier: DESOTO / CHRYSLER MOTORS / PRODUCT
Specifications
Make & Model: 1934 De Soto Airflow
Maker: Chrysler Corporation, Highland Park, Michigan
Engine: inline-6, L-head valves, 241.5 cubic inches
Transmission: 3-speed manual
Height: 66 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Width: 70 inches
Overall length: 196 inches
Weight: 3378 pounds
Horsepower: 100 at 3400 rpm
Pounds per horsepower: 33.8
Price: $995
Average 1934 wage: $1,066/year
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 11 months
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