1953 DESOTO

1953 marked the 25th anniversary of DeSoto, a division of Chrysler which passed into the history books in 1960. The anniversary saw 11 different variations of what was essentially one body style and most were sold with V8 engines.

Aficionados of classic Americana would not refer to these cars as ‘dreamboats’, but we happen to think they’ve got loads of style, not to mention comfort and performance, and when the sun shines on that grille – it’s one of the flashiest smiles around. Dare to be different.

Price guide: $27,200/£19,600

*(Firedome Sportsman 2dr hardtop coupe 8-cyl 276cu in/160bhp 2bbl)