DeSoto Airflow (1935-1937)
The DeSoto Airflow, produced by Chrysler from 1935 to 1937, represented a departure from conventional automotive design with its sleek unibody aerodynamic construction. Engineered to offer superior handling compared to contemporary vehicles, the Airflow boasted a distinctive art-deco aesthetic reminiscent of Tim Burton’s Batman films—a characteristic that appeals to modern sensibilities. However, upon its release, the Airflow encountered skepticism and ridicule from some quarters, who questioned its safety and viability. This apprehension led to a swift discontinuation of the model, replaced by the more conventionally designed DeSoto Airstream. While the Airflow’s avant-garde design may be appreciated in hindsight, its initial reception underscores the challenges of introducing innovative concepts in the automotive industry during that era.
