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DeSoto Firedome II Four-Door Sedan 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 Four-Door Sedan Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (II Four-Door Sedan). With 332 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1764 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
4.8 V8 (185 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
This 4.8L V8 engine provided robust power for its time, ensuring smooth acceleration and comfortable highway cruising. Paired with a manual transmission, it offered a direct and engaging driving experience typical of 1950s American sedans.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a primary concern for large American V8s of this era. Expect modest figures, typical for a carbureted engine of its displacement and weight.
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:
- • Powerful and smooth V8 engine (for its era)
- • Distinctive and iconic 1950s American styling
- • Spacious and comfortable interior for six occupants
- • Smooth ride quality, ideal for long-distance cruising
- • Historical significance as a classic American sedan
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Basic safety features compared to contemporary vehicles
- • Handling and braking characteristics are dated (drum brakes)
- • Large exterior dimensions can make maneuvering challenging
- • Requires specialized maintenance and parts for a classic car
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Convertible Coupe (facelift 1954): 1953 - 1954).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | II Four-Door Sedan |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.8 V8 (185 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1954 |
| End of production: | 1955 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| 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) |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.2 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1764 |
| 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 |
Behind the wheel of the DeSoto Firedome. How does it handle on the road?