DeSoto Fireflite I Sportsman 4.8 V8 (200 Hp) PowerFlite
People\'s Opinion
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DeSoto Fireflite:
The DeSoto Fireflite is a full-size premium automobile which was produced by DeSoto in the United States from 1955 until 1960.
The Fireflite was introduced in 1955 as DeSoto's top trim package of the DeSoto Firedome. It was wider and longer than the Firedome, and came equipped with a hemispherical cylinder head, 291 cubic inch displacement V8 engine producing 200 hp when equipped with the 4-barrel carburetor , and PowerFlite automatic transmission. The transmission was operated by a Flite-Control lever located on the dashboard. The car weighed 4,070 lb and cost US$3,544. AM radio was a US$110 option....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I Sportsman Overview:
DeSoto Fireflite (I Sportsman). With 371 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.
Performance Verdict
The 4.8L V8 delivered impressive power for its era, offering strong acceleration and effortless cruising, especially when paired with the smooth PowerFlite automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a primary concern for American V8s of this period; expect high fuel consumption typical of large, powerful engines from the mid-1950s.
Best Use Case:
Highway cruising and leisurely drives, showcasing its power and comfort.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful V8 engine for its era
- • Distinctive classic American styling
- • Comfortable and spacious interior
- • Smooth PowerFlite automatic transmission
- • Good collector's item
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy
- • Lacks modern safety features
- • Large turning circle (13.4m)
- • Drum brakes (305mm) less effective than modern discs
- • Maintenance can be costly for classic parts
Specifications:
| General: |
| Brand: | DeSoto |
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| Model: | Fireflite |
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| Generation: | I Sportsman |
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| Modification (Engine): | 4.8 V8 (200 Hp) PowerFlite |
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| Start of production: | 1954 |
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| End of production: | 1955 |
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| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
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| Body type: | Coupe |
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| Seats: | 6 |
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| Doors: | 2 |
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| Engine: |
| Power: | 200 Hp @ 4400 rpm. |
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| Power per litre: | 41.9 Hp/l |
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| Torque: | 371 Nm @ 2800 rpm. |
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| Engine Model/Code: | S22-1001 |
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| Engine displacement: | 4769 |
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| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
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| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
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| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
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| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
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| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
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| Valvetrain: | OHV |
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| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
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| Coolant: | 22.7 l |
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| Cylinder Bore: | 94.49 mm mm |
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| Piston Stroke: | 84.931 mm mm |
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| Compression ratio: | 7.5:1 |
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| Performance: |
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
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| Space: |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 76 l |
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| Size: |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 11° |
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| Length: | 5535 mm mm |
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| Width: | 1989 mm mm |
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| Height: | 1539 mm mm |
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| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm |
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| Front track: | 1529 mm |
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| Rear (Back) track: | 1514 mm |
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| Front overhang: | 930 mm |
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| Rear overhang: | 1405 mm |
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| Ride height (ground clearance): | 160 mm |
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| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13.4 m |
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| Approach angle: | 21° |
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| Departure angle: | 12° |
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| Powertrain: |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
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| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
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| Number of gears | 2 |
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| Transmission type | Automatic |
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| Gearbox type | PowerFlite |
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| Front brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
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| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
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| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
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| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
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| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
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| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
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Is the DeSoto Fireflite worth every penny? Give us your honest ROI.