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DeSoto Firedome Sportsman Coupe (facelift 1953) 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)
Sportsman Coupe (facelift 1953) Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (Sportsman Coupe (facelift 1953)). With 339 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. 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.
4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Offering the same strong 4.5L V8 power, the Tip-Toe Shift automatic transmission provided a smoother, more relaxed driving experience, a significant convenience feature for its time.
Fuel Economy
While enhancing driving ease, the early automatic transmission likely resulted in slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to the manual version, though still within the typical range for 1950s V8s.
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 9 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic 1950s American styling and chrome accents
- • Smooth and powerful 4.5L V8 engine for its era
- • Spacious and comfortable interior, ideal for cruising
- • Historical significance as a classic DeSoto model
- • Distinctive 'Firedome' branding and design elements
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Lacks any modern safety features (airbags, ABS, crumple zones)
- • Dated handling and braking performance
- • Parts availability can be challenging for restoration
- • Large turning circle makes maneuvering difficult in tight spaces
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I Sportsman Coupe: 1951 - 1952).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | Sportsman Coupe (facelift 1953) |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift |
| Start of production: | 1952 |
| End of production: | 1953 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 160 Hp @ 4400 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 35.4 Hp/l [127mm more] |
| Torque: | 339 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S16-1001 More details about the engine S16-1001 |
| 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: | 21.7 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: | 5420 mm mm [127mm more] |
| Width: | 1963 mm mm [61mm more] |
| Height: | 1588 mm mm [79mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3188 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1430 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1513 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13 m [above average] |
| 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 [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the DeSoto Firedome?