The DeSoto Firesweep, particularly the 1958 facelifted 4-door sedan powered by the 5.7L V8 engine and TorqueFlite automatic transmission, represents a pivotal, though ultimately short-lived, moment in the American automotive landscape. Produced from 1957 to 1958, the Firesweep occupied a middle ground within the DeSoto lineup, positioned above the entry-level Fireside but below the more luxurious DeSoto Adventurer. This variant aimed to offer a blend of style, performance, and comfort to the American family, embodying the design trends of the late 1950s while leveraging Chrysler Corporation’s engineering prowess. The 1958 model year saw a significant restyling, with a more pronounced tailfin and revised front end, attempting to capture the attention of a market increasingly focused on bold aesthetics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DeSoto |
| Model | Firesweep |
| Generation | Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan (facelift 1958) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.7 V8 (280 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production | 1957 |
| End of production | 1958 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 2400 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 5735 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 349.97 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.12 mm (4.06 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 | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 16.1 l (17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 5499 mm (216.5 in.) |
| Width | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Height | 1443 mm (56.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3099 mm (122.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm (5.59 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.2 m (46.59 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.5° |
| Departure angle | 11.4° |
| Ramp-over angle | 10.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission TorqueFlite |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| 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 1958 Firesweep was Chrysler’s 5.7-liter (349.97 cubic inch) V8 engine. This engine, designated within the Chrysler family as a “wedge” head due to the shape of its combustion chambers, produced 280 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 2400 rpm. It featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads, with a two-barrel carburetor managing fuel delivery. The valvetrain employed an overhead valve (OHV) configuration, a common design for the era. The engine’s 10:1 compression ratio contributed to its respectable power output for the time. Paired with this engine was the Chrysler TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, known for its smoothness and durability, was a key selling point for buyers seeking a comfortable driving experience. The TorqueFlite utilized a torque converter to provide seamless power transfer and eliminate the need for a clutch pedal.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 280 hp V8 and the TorqueFlite automatic resulted in a driving experience geared towards comfortable cruising rather than outright performance. While not a sports car, the Firesweep offered ample power for highway passing and merging. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmission options. The three-speed TorqueFlite’s gear ratios were optimized for acceleration and fuel economy, but it lacked the responsiveness of more modern automatic transmissions. The car’s substantial weight (approximately 1,785 kg or 3,937 lbs) also impacted its agility. Compared to other DeSoto models, such as those equipped with the higher-output V8s, the 5.7L automatic Firesweep offered a more relaxed and economical driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1958 Firesweep 4-door sedan came standard with a range of features considered luxurious for the time. These included a spacious interior upholstered in cloth and vinyl, a full-width bench seat, and a steering wheel. Exterior features included generous chrome trim, distinctive tailfins, and two-tone paint options. Optional extras included power steering, power brakes, a radio, and air conditioning. The Firesweep’s interior was designed with family comfort in mind, offering ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The dashboard layout was typical of the era, featuring a combination of analog gauges and illuminated controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Firesweep rode on a traditional body-on-frame chassis, providing a comfortable ride but also contributing to the car’s weight. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup offered a good balance of ride quality and handling for the time. Braking duties were handled by drum brakes on all four wheels, measuring 279 mm in diameter. While adequate for the car’s weight and performance, the drum brakes lacked the stopping power and fade resistance of disc brakes. Steering was accomplished via a worm-reduction unit, which provided relatively heavy but precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1958 Firesweep, while visually appealing, faced stiff competition from other American automakers. Critics generally praised the car’s styling and comfortable ride, but some noted its lack of outright performance compared to rivals. Fuel economy, typical for a large American car of the era, was relatively poor. Compared to other DeSoto models, the 5.7L automatic Firesweep offered a more affordable entry point into the brand, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and practicality over performance. The Fireside, being the base model, was more economical, while the Adventurer offered a more luxurious and powerful experience.
Legacy
The DeSoto Firesweep, and the DeSoto brand as a whole, was discontinued after the 1961 model year. The 1958 Firesweep, while not a long-lived model, remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. The 5.7L V8 engine and TorqueFlite transmission are known for their durability and relative ease of maintenance. Today, well-maintained examples of the 1958 Firesweep are sought after for their classic styling and nostalgic appeal. While parts availability can be a challenge, a dedicated community of DeSoto owners and restorers ensures that these cars continue to be enjoyed for years to come. The Firesweep represents a unique chapter in American automotive history, embodying the optimism and design sensibilities of the late 1950s.
