The DeSoto Fireflite III Four-Door Sportsman, specifically the 1959 facelift model equipped with the 6.3-liter V8 engine producing 325 horsepower and paired with a TorqueFlite automatic transmission, represents a high point in the final years of the DeSoto marque. Produced for only two model years (1958-1959), the Fireflite III was positioned as a premium full-size offering, aiming to compete with other American luxury automobiles. This particular configuration, combining substantial power with the convenience of an automatic gearbox, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and capable family sedan with a touch of performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DeSoto |
| Model | Fireflite |
| Generation | Fireflite III Four-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) |
| Type (Engine) | 6.3 V8 (325 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production | 1958 |
| End of production | 1959 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 171.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 304.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 576 Nm @ 2800 rpm, 424.84 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 6276 cm3, 382.99 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 107.95 mm, 4.25 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.85 mm, 3.38 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l, 4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.1 l, 15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1891 kg, 4168.94 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l, 22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal |
| Length | 5616 mm, 221.1 in |
| Width | 1999 mm, 78.7 in |
| Height | 1400 mm, 55.12 in |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm, 125.98 in |
| Front track | 1549 mm, 60.98 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1516 mm, 59.69 in |
| Front overhang | 889 mm, 35 in |
| Rear overhang | 1527 mm, 60.12 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm, 5.59 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.2 m, 49.87 ft |
| Approach angle | 15° |
| Departure angle | 11° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 10.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission TorqueFlite |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 305 mm |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 1959 Fireflite III was the DeSoto 383 cubic inch (6.3-liter) V8 engine. This engine, part of the Chrysler B-series engine family, was a robust and relatively simple design featuring overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain and a cast iron block. The 1959 iteration produced 325 horsepower thanks to a four-barrel carburetor and a 10.1:1 compression ratio. The TorqueFlite automatic transmission, a three-speed unit, was a Chrysler innovation known for its smoothness and durability. It utilized a torque converter to provide a fluid coupling between the engine and the transmission, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. The transmission was fully automatic, with selections for Park, Neutral, Drive, and Low.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 325 hp V8 and the TorqueFlite automatic resulted in a car that was both powerful and easy to drive. While not a sports car, the Fireflite III offered brisk acceleration for its size and weight. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmission options. The gear ratios were optimized for cruising, making it a comfortable highway car. However, kickdown for passing maneuvers could be somewhat slow by modern standards. The large size and weight of the vehicle, approximately 4,169 pounds, meant that handling was not particularly nimble, but the torsion bar front suspension did provide a reasonably comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fireflite III Four-Door Sportsman was well-equipped for its time. Standard features included power steering, power brakes, a heater, and a deluxe interior with cloth and vinyl upholstery. The 1959 facelift brought revised styling, including a more prominent grille and redesigned taillights. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio, power windows, and whitewall tires. The interior featured a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for six passengers. The dashboard was typically finished in a two-tone color scheme and featured a prominent speedometer and fuel gauge.
Chassis & Braking
The Fireflite III rode on a traditional body-on-frame chassis. The front suspension utilized independent torsion bars and a double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, but wasn’t particularly sporty. Braking was accomplished via drum brakes on all four wheels. While adequate for the time, the drum brakes lacked the stopping power and fade resistance of modern disc brakes. The steering system was a worm-reduction unit, which provided relatively heavy but precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted the car’s large size and weight, as well as its somewhat dated styling compared to some of its competitors. Compared to other DeSoto models, such as the Adventurer, the Fireflite III offered a more balanced combination of performance and luxury at a slightly lower price point. It was positioned as a more practical alternative to the sportier Adventurer, appealing to families and buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience.
Legacy
The DeSoto brand was discontinued after the 1961 model year, making the Fireflite III a relatively rare and collectible classic car today. The 6.3-liter V8 engine and TorqueFlite transmission proved to be durable and reliable powertrains, and many examples are still on the road today. While parts availability can be a challenge, the Chrysler B-series engine family is well-supported by aftermarket suppliers. The 1959 Fireflite III represents a significant piece of American automotive history, embodying the style and optimism of the late 1950s. Its combination of power, comfort, and classic styling continues to appeal to enthusiasts and collectors alike. The automatic transmission, while not offering the driver engagement of a manual, remains a testament to Chrysler’s engineering prowess and contributed to the car’s enduring appeal as a comfortable and capable cruiser.
