The DeSoto Fireflite is an automobile produced by DeSoto in the United States from 1955 to 1960.
The Fireflite was introduced in 1955 as De
Soto's flagship model. It was wider and longer than previous
DeSoto models and it came equipped with a V8 engine
producing 200 hp when equipped with the 4 barrel carburetor and PowerFlite automatic
transmission. The transmission was operated by a
Flite-Control lever located on the dashboard.
The
1956 model car was best known for its long, tapering tail fins, often
accentuated by a two-tone exterior finish. The interior had bench seats that
could accommodate six passengers. The Fireflite had a 0 to 60 mph
acceleration time of 11 seconds and a top speed of 110 mph.
The Fireflite’s bold design
increased sales for DeSoto. In 1955, DeSotos sold well with over 114,765
examples produced, making 1955 the best year for the company since 1946. By
1956, DeSoto placed eleventh in U.S. production with an annual production of
110,418 cars. The success was short-lived, however when Chrysler Corporation
discontinued the DeSoto brand in November 1960.
In 1956 a gold and white Fireflite convertible was the Official Pace Car
for the 1956 Indianapolis 500. The Fireflite convertibles are rare, only 186 were produced.
The most popular color was red and cream.
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