1957 DeSoto Adventurer Convertible — One of Approximately 18 Remaining

Named after famed Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, the DeSoto brand was positioned as a highly-styled, high-performance, mid-priced vehicle that bridged the gap between Chrysler's entry-level and luxury offerings. For the majority of their time on the market, DeSotos featured technologies that were both novel and genuinely functional, drawing wide consumer appeal. With forward-thinking design and clever marketing — including memorable advertising campaigns featuring the once hugely popular Groucho Marx — DeSoto managed to withstand more than one economic recession while closely trailing the sales of competing makes.

Late in the 1957 model year cycle, DeSoto determined that the Adventurer would be offered as a convertible. The decision came so late in the production cycle that DeSoto simply inserted a loose page into the Adventurer owner's manual for convertibles, welcoming new owners into the "Elite Adventurer Family." Because the convertible was introduced so late in the run, DeSoto produced only 300 examples in 1957. Today, automotive historians believe approximately 18 known 1957 Adventurer Convertibles remain in the United States — making this car one of the rarest production American automobiles of the entire 1950s.

This 1957 Adventurer Convertible, representing the first year the Adventurer was offered in convertible form, is the result of a stunning restoration. Finished in Adventurer Gold and Ivory flowing into a complementing Adventurer interior, this car is exceptionally well-equipped. Factory options include the self-seeking radio with dual antennas, steering wheel clock, padded dash, power windows, power front seat, power steering, power brakes, and the highly distinctive gold "DS" hubcaps that immediately identify the Adventurer to those in the know.

Fire it up and the legendary 345ci/345hp HEMI V8 roars to life — a milestone engine that famously achieved the magical one-horsepower-per-cubic-inch ratio. Slide down the road and feel the silky-smooth engagement of Chrysler's iconic push-button automatic transmission, one of the most distinctive driving experiences of the entire era. Front to back, inside and out, this Adventurer simply does not disappoint.

Research indicates the trim tag decodes as follows: **BDY:** 563 - Adventurer Convertible / **PNT:** LPL - Surf White Roof, Adventurer Gold Body, Surf White Lower Body Sweep / **TRM:** 546 - Special Adventurer Gold Trim / **PS:** 4 - Power Seats / **AH:** 4 - Fresh Air Heater / **PW:** 5 - Power Windows / **SS:** 9 - Stone Shields / **BG:** 3 - Bumper Guards.

This is a truly rare automobile restored to the highest standard. Come see it at Motor City Classic Cars in Vero Beach, FL.

Unless stated otherwise, vehicle mileage on title is exempt and unknown if original.