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DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible (facelift 1959) 5.9 V8 (295 Hp) PowerFlite
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 Convertible (facelift 1959) Overview:
DeSoto Firesweep (I Convertible (facelift 1959)). With 529 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. 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) PowerFlite Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 5.9L V8 engine delivers a robust 295 Hp, providing ample power and torque for effortless cruising and respectable acceleration for a large convertible of its era. The 2-speed PowerFlite automatic transmission, while smooth, limits ultimate performance compared to later automatics.
Fuel Economy
Typical for a large 1950s American V8, fuel economy is poor by modern standards, prioritizing power and smooth operation over efficiency.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic and distinctive late-1950s American styling
- • Powerful 5.9L V8 engine for its era, offering strong cruising ability
- • Spacious and comfortable interior, ideal for long drives
- • Rarity and high collector appeal as a classic DeSoto
- • Smooth automatic transmissions (PowerFlite/TorqueFlite)
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Lacks any modern safety features or driver aids
- • Large dimensions and turning circle can make maneuvering challenging
- • Drum brakes all around offer limited stopping power compared to discs
- • Requires specialized maintenance and parts due to its age and rarity
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 Convertible (facelift 1959) |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.9 V8 (295 Hp) PowerFlite |
| Start of production: | 1958 |
| End of production: | 1959 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet, 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] |
| 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 | 2 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | PowerFlite |
| 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 |
Behind the wheel of the DeSoto Firesweep. How does it handle on the road?