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DeSoto Firedome I Four-Door Sedan 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)
I Four-Door Sedan Overview:
DeSoto Firedome (I Four-Door Sedan). With 339 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Equipped with the innovative 'Tip-Toe Shift' semi-automatic transmission, this variant offered a smoother, more convenient driving experience while retaining the robust performance of the 4.5L 'FireDome' V8 engine.
Fuel Economy
Similar to the manual version, fuel economy was not a strong point, reflecting the design priorities of 1950s American V8 engines and early automatic transmissions.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3.9 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 14 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful 'FireDome' Hemi V8 engine for its era.
- • Spacious and comfortable interior, ideal for long journeys.
- • Distinctive and classic post-war American styling.
- • Smooth ride quality thanks to independent coil spring front suspension.
- • Available 'Tip-Toe Shift' semi-automatic transmission offered driving convenience.
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy by modern standards.
- • Lack of modern safety features.
- • Drum brakes on all wheels offer limited stopping power compared to modern systems.
- • Large turning circle makes maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.
- • Parts availability can be a challenge for restoration.
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firedome |
| Generation: | I Four-Door Sedan |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.5 V8 (160 Hp) Tip-Toe Shift |
| Start of production: | 1951 |
| End of production: | 1952 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 160 Hp @ 4400 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 35.4 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 339 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S17-1001 |
| 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: | 5293 mm mm |
| Width: | 1902 mm mm |
| Height: | 1667 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 3188 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1430 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1513 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 229 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13 m |
| 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 |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the DeSoto Firedome!