The DeSoto Fireflite Two-Door Hardtop, powered by a 5.9-liter V8 engine producing 295 horsepower and coupled with a PowerFlite automatic transmission, represented a significant offering in the American automotive landscape of 1959 and 1960. Positioned as a mid-range to upper-mid-range model within the DeSoto lineup, it aimed to blend performance with the styling cues of the late 1950s. The Fireflite occupied a space between the more affordable DeSoto Diplomat and the flagship DeSoto Adventurer, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and powerful full-size automobile. This particular configuration, the two-door hardtop with the 5.9L V8 and PowerFlite, was a popular choice for those prioritizing a balance of style, convenience, and robust engine performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DeSoto |
| Model | Fireflite |
| Generation | Fireflite Two-Door HardTop |
| Type (Engine) | 5.9 V8 (295 Hp) PowerFlite |
| Start of production | 1959 |
| End of production | 1960 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 529 Nm @ 2400 rpm / 390.17 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 5916 cm3 / 361.02 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 104.65 mm / 4.12 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.85 mm / 3.38 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 16.1 l / 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 966 l / 34.11 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l / 22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal |
| Length | 5471 mm / 215.39 in. |
| Width | 2017 mm / 79.41 in. |
| Height | 1392 mm / 54.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3099 mm / 122.01 in. |
| Front track | 1549 mm / 60.98 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1516 mm / 59.69 in. |
| Front overhang | 881 mm / 34.69 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1491 mm / 58.7 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 132 mm / 5.2 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3 m / 46.92 ft. |
| Approach angle | 15.6° |
| Departure angle | 10.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 12.4° |
| 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 | 2 gears, automatic transmission PowerFlite |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Drum, 279 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 279 mm |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 1959-1960 DeSoto Fireflite Two-Door Hardtop was the 5.9-liter (361 cubic inch) V8 engine. This engine, designated within Chrysler’s engine family as the “RB” series, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a conventional overhead valve (OHV) configuration with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a Carter carburetor, a common setup for the era. The 10:1 compression ratio contributed to the engine’s respectable 295 horsepower output at 4600 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 2400 rpm. The PowerFlite automatic transmission, a three-speed unit, was the sole transmission option for this model. The PowerFlite, while providing smooth shifting, wasn’t known for its performance-oriented gear ratios, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Fireflite Two-Door Hardtop with the 5.9L V8 and PowerFlite offered a comfortable and capable driving experience, typical of American cars of the late 1950s. While the 295 horsepower was substantial for the time, the car’s considerable weight (approximately 3,800 lbs) and the PowerFlite’s gearing meant that acceleration wasn’t particularly brisk compared to some of its competitors. The PowerFlite’s shift points were geared towards smooth cruising rather than aggressive downshifting. Compared to a Fireflite equipped with a manual transmission, the automatic version felt noticeably less responsive. The emphasis was on relaxed highway driving and providing a comfortable ride for passengers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fireflite Two-Door Hardtop came standard with a generous array of features for the period. Interior appointments included a cloth and vinyl bench seat, a full-width dashboard with a prominent instrument cluster, and standard carpeting. Power steering and power brakes were typically included. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio, whitewall tires, and upgraded interior trim packages. The two-door hardtop body style itself was considered a premium offering, providing a more stylish and modern appearance compared to the traditional post sedan. The exterior featured DeSoto’s signature styling cues of the era, including prominent tailfins and generous chrome trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Fireflite rode on a traditional body-on-frame chassis. Front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a relatively comfortable ride. The rear suspension employed leaf springs, a common and durable design for full-size American cars. Braking was accomplished via drum brakes on all four wheels, measuring 279mm in diameter. While adequate for the time, the drum brakes lacked the stopping power of later disc brake systems. Steering was handled by a worm-reduction unit, which provided a relatively indirect steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1959-1960 DeSoto Fireflite was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its styling, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. However, some reviewers noted the car’s considerable weight and the PowerFlite transmission’s lack of responsiveness. Compared to other full-size American cars of the era, such as the Chevrolet Impala or the Ford Fairlane, the Fireflite offered a similar level of comfort and features, but often at a slightly higher price point. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was not a strong point, averaging around 15-18 miles per gallon. Reliability was generally good, although the carburetor could require occasional adjustment.
Legacy
The DeSoto Fireflite, and the DeSoto brand as a whole, ultimately faded from the automotive landscape in 1961. However, the 1959-1960 models, particularly those equipped with the 5.9L V8 and PowerFlite, have gained a following among classic car enthusiasts. The engine is known for its durability and relatively simple mechanical design, making it a relatively easy engine to maintain and rebuild. Today, well-preserved examples of the Fireflite Two-Door Hardtop are sought after by collectors and represent a nostalgic reminder of the styling and engineering of the late 1950s American automobile. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated network of suppliers caters to the classic Mopar market, ensuring that these vehicles can be kept on the road for years to come.
