DeSoto Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) 6.3 V8 (325 Hp) TorqueFlite
People\'s Opinion
N/A / 5
III Two-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) Overview:
DeSoto Fireflite (III Two-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959)). With 576 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1869 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. 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
This 6.3L V8 engine delivered exceptional power for its era, providing strong acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The 325 Hp, combined with the smooth TorqueFlite automatic, made for a potent and enjoyable driving experience, characteristic of American muscle.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a priority for large American V8s of this period. Expect very low MPG figures, likely in the single digits, making it an expensive car to run by modern standards, even with period fuel prices.
Best Use Case:
Highway cruising, long-distance touring, classic car shows, and leisurely drives where its power and comfort can be appreciated.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic 'Forward Look' styling and distinctive fins.
- • Powerful 6.3L V8 engine offering strong performance for its time.
- • Luxurious and spacious interior with comfortable seating for six.
- • Smooth and reliable TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
- • Excellent highway cruiser, absorbing road imperfections.
- • Rarity and classic car appeal, a true piece of automotive history.
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy due to large V8 and carburetion.
- • Handling and braking are rudimentary by modern standards.
- • Lack of modern safety features (airbags, ABS, seatbelts).
- • Large dimensions make it challenging to maneuver and park in urban areas.
- • Parts availability can be difficult and expensive for restoration.
- • High maintenance costs for a classic vehicle.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(III Convertible (facelift 1958): 1957 - 1958).
| General: |
| Brand: | DeSoto |
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| Model: | Fireflite |
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| Generation: | III Two-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) |
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| Modification (Engine): | 6.3 V8 (325 Hp) TorqueFlite |
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| Start of production: | 1958 |
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| End of production: | 1959 |
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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: | 325 Hp @ 4600 rpm. |
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| Power per litre: | 51.8 Hp/l |
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| Torque: | 576 Nm @ 2800 rpm. |
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| Engine displacement: | 6276 |
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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: | 15.1 l |
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| Cylinder Bore: | 107.95 mm mm |
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| Piston Stroke: | 85.85 mm mm |
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| Compression ratio: | 10.1:1 |
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| Performance: |
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
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| Weight-to-power ratio: | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.9 Hp/tonne |
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| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.2 Nm/tonne |
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| Space: |
| Kerb Weight: | 1869 |
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| Fuel tank capacity: | 87 l |
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| Size: |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 10.4° |
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| Length: | 5616 mm mm [64mm more] |
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| Width: | 1999 mm mm [10mm more] |
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| Height: | 1397 mm mm [53mm less] |
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| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
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| Front track: | 1549 mm |
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| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
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| Front overhang: | 889 mm |
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| Rear overhang: | 1527 mm |
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| Ride height (ground clearance): | 142 mm |
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| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 15.2 m [above average] |
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| Approach angle: | 15° |
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| Departure angle: | 11° |
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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 | 3 |
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| Transmission type | Automatic |
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| Gearbox type | TorqueFlite |
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| Front brakes | Drum, 305 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
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| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
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| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
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| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
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| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
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The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the DeSoto Fireflite!