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DeSoto Adventurer I Convertible 5.7 V8 (345 Hp) TorqueFlite
Overall Rating
DeSoto Adventurer:
The DeSoto Adventurer is a full-sized automobile that was produced by DeSoto from 1956 through the 1960 model year. Introduced as a four-seat high-performance sports coupe concept car, the Adventurer ended up being DeSoto's special, limited-production, high-performance model, similar to the more luxurious and exclusive "letter series" Chrysler 300 and Chrysler Saratoga.
Initially offered only as a hardtop coupe, the Adventurer was DeSoto's top-trim level car, replacing the Custom. A convertible was added to the model range in 1957, and a four-door hardtop and sedan in its final year of 1960....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I Convertible Overview:
DeSoto Adventurer (I Convertible). With 481 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
5.7 V8 (345 Hp) TorqueFlite Verdict:
Performance Verdict
This 5.7L V8 engine delivered exceptional power for its time, making the Adventurer a true performance car. Paired with the TorqueFlite automatic, it offered smooth, effortless acceleration and cruising capabilities.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a priority for large American V8s of this era. Expect very low MPG figures, consistent with a powerful, carbureted engine designed for performance rather than efficiency.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
4.6 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 5 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic 1950s American styling and presence
- • Powerful 5.7L V8 engine offering strong performance for its era
- • Smooth and reliable TorqueFlite automatic transmission
- • Luxurious and comfortable interior for its time
- • High collector's value and rarity
- • Open-top convertible driving experience
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Lacks modern safety features and crash protection
- • Handling and braking are rudimentary compared to contemporary vehicles
- • Maintenance can be challenging due to age and parts availability
- • Large turning circle makes it less agile in urban environments
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I Coupe: 1955 - 1956).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Adventurer |
| Generation: | I Convertible |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.7 V8 (345 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production: | 1956 |
| End of production: | 1957 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 345 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 61 Hp/l [2mm more] |
| Torque: | 481 Nm @ 3600 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S26 More details about the engine S26 |
| Engine displacement: | 5654 |
| 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: | 19.9 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 96.52 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 96.52 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.25:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 87 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5613 mm mm [2mm more] |
| Width: | 1986 mm mm [3mm less] |
| Height: | 1397 mm mm [76mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1549 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13.1 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 | 3 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | TorqueFlite |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the DeSoto Adventurer!