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DeSoto Firedome III Convertible (facelift 1958) 5.9 V8 (295 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)
III Convertible (facelift 1958) Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (III Convertible (facelift 1958)). With 529 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.
5.9 V8 (295 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
This 5.9L V8 delivered impressive power for its time, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising capability, characteristic of American luxury cars.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a priority for large V8s of this era; expect significant fuel consumption, typical for a powerful 1950s American engine.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3.7 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 11 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful 5.9L V8 engine for strong performance.
- • Iconic American styling and convertible luxury.
- • Spacious 6-seat interior for comfortable cruising.
- • Collector's item with increasing historical value.
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy due to large V8.
- • Lack of modern safety features.
- • Maintenance can be challenging due to age and parts availability.
- • Large dimensions make it less agile in urban environments.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(III Four-Door Sportsman: 1956 - 1957).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | III Convertible (facelift 1958) |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.9 V8 (295 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1957 |
| End of production: | 1958 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 295 Hp @ 4600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 49.9 Hp/l [15mm more] |
| Torque: | 529 Nm @ 2400 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 5916 |
| 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: | 3.8 l |
| Coolant: | 16.1 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 104.65 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85.85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 87 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 10° |
| Length: | 5552 mm mm [15mm more] |
| Width: | 1989 mm mm [3mm more] |
| Height: | 1450 mm mm [2mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1549 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
| Front overhang: | 892 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1461 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 140 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 15.1 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 16.3° |
| Departure angle: | 11.6° |
| 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 |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
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