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DeSoto Firedome II Convertible 4.8 V8 (185 Hp)
Overall Rating
DeSoto Firedome:
The DeSoto Firedome was a full-size automobile produced between 1952 and 1959 by the DeSoto division of the Chrysler Corporation. Introduced as DeSoto's premium line of vehicles for the 1952 model year, it retained that position until demoted to the least expensive model for 1955. It was reclassified to become a mid-range vehicle for 1957 and was discontinued for the 1960 model year.
The 1953 Firedome was introduced just prior to DeSoto's 25th Anniversary in 1953, and arrived as the new top series, displacing the Custom nameplate which was retired at the end of the 1952 model year. The entire De Soto model lineup was restyled and Firedome prices started at US$2,740. During the 1953 model year, approximately 64,211 examples were produced....(Read more on Wikipedia)
II Convertible Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (II Convertible). With 332 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
4.8 V8 (185 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
This 4.8L V8 provided ample power for its time, delivering smooth acceleration and strong torque for comfortable highway cruising, characteristic of 1950s American luxury cars.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a priority in the 1950s, and this large V8, coupled with a carburettor, would yield very poor mileage by contemporary standards, typical for its class.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3.8 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 8 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic 1950s American styling and presence
- • Smooth and powerful V8 engine for its era
- • Comfortable and spacious ride quality
- • Classic convertible driving experience
- • Relatively robust and simple mechanicals
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Lack of any modern safety features
- • Soft, boat-like handling characteristics
- • Maintenance and parts availability for a classic car
- • Drum brakes offer limited stopping power
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Convertible Coupe (facelift 1954): 1953 - 1954).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | II Convertible |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.8 V8 (185 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1954 |
| End of production: | 1955 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 185 Hp @ 4400 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 38.8 Hp/l [87mm more] |
| Torque: | 332 Nm @ 2800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S21-1001 More details about the engine S21-1001 |
| Engine displacement: | 4769 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
| Coolant: | 21.8 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 94.49 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 84.931 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 7.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 76 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 11° |
| Length: | 5535 mm mm [87mm more] |
| Width: | 1989 mm mm [20mm more] |
| Height: | 1539 mm mm [93mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm [12mm more] |
| Front track: | 1529 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1514 mm |
| Front overhang: | 930 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1405 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 160 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13.4 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 21° |
| Departure angle: | 12° |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Drum, 305 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
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