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DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe (facelift 1958) 5.9 EFi V8 (355 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)
II Coupe (facelift 1958) Overview:
DeSoto Adventurer (II Coupe (facelift 1958)). With 542 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.
5.9 EFi V8 (355 Hp) TorqueFlite Verdict:
Performance Verdict
This top-tier 5.9L V8, with 355 Hp and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFi), offered exceptional performance for its time, delivering strong acceleration and effortless highway cruising thanks to its substantial torque and smooth TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a priority for such a large displacement V8 from this era, especially with EFi still in its early stages. Expect very high fuel consumption, typical for a powerful American luxury coupe of the late 1950s.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic 'Forward Look' styling and luxurious presence
- • Powerful V8 engines offering strong performance for the era
- • Smooth and reliable TorqueFlite automatic transmission
- • Spacious interior with comfortable seating for six
- • Rarity and collector appeal
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Outdated safety features and crash protection
- • Soft suspension and vague steering limit dynamic handling
- • Parts availability can be challenging for restoration
- • Large turning circle makes maneuvering difficult
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I Convertible: 1956 - 1957).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Adventurer |
| Generation: | II Coupe (facelift 1958) |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.9 EFi V8 (355 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production: | 1957 |
| End of production: | 1958 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 355 Hp @ 5000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 60 Hp/l [61mm less] |
| Torque: | 542 Nm @ 3600 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 5916 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity: | 3.8 l |
| Coolant: | 16.1 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 104.65 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85.85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.25:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 87 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5552 mm mm [61mm less] |
| Width: | 1989 mm mm [3mm more] |
| Height: | 1397 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 3200 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1549 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
| Front overhang: | 892 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1461 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 140 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 15.1 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 |
| 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 coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the DeSoto Adventurer!