This rare De Soto Series K "Dickey Seat" Roadster is in excellent condition, it was fully restored (body and engine) approx. 6 years ago and has a deep navy with black guards finish. The paint, trim, chrome, wooden spoke wheels and tyres, hood and side curtains and engine compartment all present extremely well. It runs quietly and drives easily. The De Soto was built by the Chrysler Corporation from 1928-1960 (named after a Spanish explorer), originally to compete with Nash, Studebaker and Oldsmobile, this model was well regarded and known as a strong and reliable car. The 1929 De Soto Series K has a powerful 6 cylinder 21.6 hp side valve engine and a 3 speed centre change gearbox, hydraulic 4 wheel brakes and rubber engine mounts (both rare in cars of this vintage). This 1929 De Soto "Dickey Seat" Roadster is a strong performer with 75+kph cruising ability and strong hydraulic 4 wheel brakes, an excellent drive anywhere rally car. DeSoto was first introduced in 1928 by Walter P. Chrysler, and immediately attracted 500 dealers to the table. By the time the DeSoto production was in full swing in late 1928, there were approximately 1,500 agencies selling the 1929 DeSoto Six, and the demand just got bigger. In the first twelve months, DeSoto production set a record 81,065 cars. The car name honoured Hernando de Soto, a 16th century Spaniard who discovered the Mississippi River and had covered more miles across North America than any other early explorer. The car itself was a mid-price stylish six cylinder, 55 horsepower vehicle. Several engineering features offered by DeSoto included - oil filter and Lockheed hydraulic brakes that were often either optional or not offered by contemporary makes at this stage. DeSoto niceties included standard automatic windshield wiper, ignition lock, brake light, full-instrumentation, steering hub controls for headlights, and a tool kit with grease gun. It was a smooth package made more appealing by seven different models with swank names. The roadster was called Roadster Espanol. The deluxe sedan was called Sedan de Lujo. Even the basic two-door benefited as the Cupe Business. DeSoto enjoyed great success for development in the 1930s and produced some outrageous fins in the late 1950's, sadly after 32 years, DeSoto production came to a halt November 30, 1960 and dealers were notified by telegram.
