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DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible (facelift 1958) 5.9 V8 (305 Hp) TorqueFlite
Overall Rating
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)
III Convertible (facelift 1958) Overview:
DeSoto Fireflite (III Convertible (facelift 1958)). With 542 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.
5.9 V8 (305 Hp) TorqueFlite Verdict:
Performance Verdict
This 5.9L V8 engine delivered exceptional power for its era, with 305 Hp and a massive 542 Nm of torque, ensuring effortless acceleration and highway cruising. Paired with the smooth TorqueFlite automatic transmission, it offered a refined yet potent driving experience typical of high-end American cars.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a primary concern for cars of this class and era. The large 5.9L V8, fed by a carburettor, would have delivered relatively low MPG by modern standards, though it was competitive for its time among powerful luxury cruisers.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
4.7 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 18 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful and torquey V8 engine for its time
- • Distinctive and stylish 'Forward Look' design
- • Comfortable and spacious ride ideal for cruising
- • Relatively advanced TorqueFlite automatic transmission
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Limited safety features compared to contemporary vehicles
- • Large dimensions can be challenging for modern parking/maneuvering
- • Parts availability can be an issue for restoration
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(III Four-Door Sportsman: 1956 - 1957).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Fireflite |
| Generation: | III Convertible (facelift 1958) |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.9 V8 (305 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production: | 1957 |
| End of production: | 1958 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 305 Hp @ 4600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 51.6 Hp/l [15mm more] |
| Torque: | 542 Nm @ 2800 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 5916 |
| 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: | 3.8 l |
| Coolant: | 16.1 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 104.65 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85.85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 87 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5552 mm mm [15mm more] |
| Width: | 1989 mm mm [3mm more] |
| Height: | 1450 mm mm [2mm more] |
| 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 Fireflite!