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DeSoto Firedome I Station Wagon 4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift
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)
I Station Wagon Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (I Station Wagon). With 339 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Delivers smooth and comfortable power with DeSoto's innovative Tip-Toe Shift semi-automatic transmission, making for a more relaxed driving experience compared to the manual.
Fuel Economy
Similar to the manual, the early semi-automatic transmission may offer marginal differences in fuel consumption, still leaning towards lower efficiency due to engine size.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3.9 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 14 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Robust and powerful V8 engine for its era
- • Spacious and comfortable interior, ideal for families
- • Distinctive and classic American styling
- • Smooth ride quality with soft suspension
- • Historical significance as a post-war American classic
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Lack of modern safety features (e.g., airbags, ABS)
- • Dated handling and braking performance (drum brakes)
- • Limited parts availability for restoration and maintenance
- • Large turning circle can make maneuvering challenging
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | I Station Wagon |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift |
| Start of production: | 1951 |
| End of production: | 1952 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 160 Hp @ 4400 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 35.4 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 339 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S17-1001 |
| Engine displacement: | 4524 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
| Coolant: | 23.6 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 92.075 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 84.931 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 7.1:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 64 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5293 mm mm |
| Width: | 1902 mm mm |
| Height: | 1667 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 3188 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1430 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1513 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 229 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13 m |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | Tip-Toe Shift Fluid Drive |
| Front brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
Your first impression of the DeSoto Firedome in one word? Go!