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DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible 5.7 V8 (280 Hp)
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 Overview:
DeSoto Firesweep (I Convertible). With 515 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.
5.7 V8 (280 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A robust and capable V8, offering strong performance for daily driving and cruising, though slightly less potent than the PowerPack versions.
Fuel Economy
Similar to other V8s of the era, fuel efficiency was not a strong point, with high consumption expected.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful V8 engines for its era
- • Distinctive and elegant 'Forward Look' styling
- • Spacious and comfortable interior
- • Smooth automatic transmissions (especially TorqueFlite)
- • Iconic classic car status
Cons:
- • Very poor fuel economy by modern standards
- • Basic safety features compared to contemporary vehicles
- • Large size can be challenging for modern parking/maneuvering
- • Requires specialized maintenance for classic components
- • Drum brakes offer limited stopping power
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I 2-Door Sportsman: 1956 - 1957).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | DeSoto |
| Model: | Firesweep |
| Generation: | I Convertible |
| Modification (Engine): | 5.7 V8 (280 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1957 |
| End of production: | 1958 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 280 Hp @ 4600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 48.8 Hp/l [18mm more] |
| Torque: | 515 Nm @ 2400 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 5735 |
| 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: | 103.12 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: | 10.5° |
| Length: | 5499 mm mm [18mm more] |
| Width: | 1989 mm mm [3mm more] |
| Height: | 1443 mm mm [3mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 3099 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1547 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1516 mm |
| Front overhang: | 940 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1461 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 142 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 14.2 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 16.5° |
| Departure angle: | 11.4° |
| 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 | Manual |
| 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 coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
Is the DeSoto Firesweep your dream ride or just a daily drive? Let's talk!