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DeSoto Firesweep I 2-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) 5.9 V8 (295 Hp) TorqueFlite
Overall Rating
DeSoto Firesweep:
The DeSoto Firesweep is an automobile that was produced by DeSoto from 1957 through 1959.
The Firesweep was a lower-priced entry that combined a Dodge shell and chassis with a DeSoto bumper and grill. 1957 models were sold only as imports in Canada. While the Firesweep featured DeSoto's signature tailfins, the front clip was based on the Dodge Coronet. The most telling feature was the headlight design, housed under heavily chromed lids typical of Dodge. Firesweep grilles were similar to those on other contemporary DeSoto models....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I 2-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) Overview:
DeSoto Firesweep (I 2-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959)). With 529 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 V8 (295 Hp) TorqueFlite Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 5.9 V8, delivering 295 horsepower, was well-matched with the more advanced TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission. This combination offered smoother shifts and better overall performance flexibility compared to the 2-speed PowerFlite, enhancing the driving experience.
Fuel Economy
While slightly more efficient than the 2-speed PowerFlite due to the extra gear, the TorqueFlite-equipped 5.9 V8 still consumed a substantial amount of fuel, typical for a large displacement engine of the era.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful 5.9L V8 engine for its era
- • Distinctive and stylish mid-century American design
- • Spacious and comfortable interior for six occupants
- • Smooth automatic transmission options (especially TorqueFlite)
- • Strong road presence and classic appeal
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy
- • Lack of modern safety features
- • Soft suspension leads to significant body roll
- • Large turning circle makes maneuvering difficult
- • Parts availability can be challenging for restoration
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I 4-Door Sedan (facelift 1958): 1957 - 1958).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firesweep |
| Generation: | I 2-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.9 V8 (295 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production: | 1958 |
| End of production: | 1959 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 295 Hp @ 4600 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 49.9 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 529 Nm @ 2400 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: | 4.7 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: | 76 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 10.4° |
| Length: | 5514 mm mm [15mm more] |
| Width: | 1999 mm mm [10mm more] |
| Height: | 1438 mm mm [5mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3099 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1547 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 140 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 14.2 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 15° |
| Departure angle: | 10° |
| 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, 279 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 279 mm [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
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