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DeSoto Firedome III Convertible (facelift 1959) 6.3 V8 (305 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 1959) Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (III Convertible (facelift 1959)). With 556 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1950 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
6.3 V8 (305 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Identical to the TorqueFlite variant, this 6.3L V8 offered robust power and smooth delivery, making it well-suited for comfortable long-distance travel and commanding presence on the road, typical of premium American cars from the late 50s.
Fuel Economy
As with all large V8s from this period, fuel efficiency was secondary to power and luxury. Owners should anticipate significant fuel consumption, reflecting the engine's size and the technology of the time.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 3 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic 1950s American styling and presence
- • Powerful and smooth 6.3L V8 engine for effortless cruising
- • Spacious and comfortable interior, ideal for long journeys
- • High collector appeal and potential for appreciation
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Lack of modern safety features and crash protection
- • Large dimensions can make city driving and parking challenging
- • Maintenance can be complex and parts availability limited for a classic
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(III Four-Door Sedan (facelift 1958): 1957 - 1958).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | III Convertible (facelift 1959) |
| Modification (Engine): | 6.3 V8 (305 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1958 |
| End of production: | 1959 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet, Coupe |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 305 Hp @ 4600 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 48.6 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 556 Nm @ 2400 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 6276 |
| 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: | 15.1 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 107.95 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85.85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.1:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.5 kg/Nm, 285.1 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1950 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 87 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 10.4° |
| Length: | 5616 mm mm [64mm more] |
| Width: | 1999 mm mm [10mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1549 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
| Front overhang: | 889 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1527 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 142 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 15.2 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 15° |
| Departure angle: | 11° |
| 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 torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
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