In this article, let us see about the 1955 Desoto Firedome.
Desoto Firedome was a full-sized sedan launched in 1952. It was available in three generations till 1959. The second-generation Desoto Firedome was part of the Forward Look Era. These vehicles were known for their aggressive styling, V8 engines, tailfins, and designs. When people criticized the first-generation models, the entire designs were changed by the designer Virgil Exner. Here is everything about the 55′ Desoto Firedome edition and its features.
Hemi V8 Engine
Like the muscle cars of the 60s, the Desoto Firedome was equipped with a HEMI V8 engine. It was built around an overhead valve and carburetor. The performance was enhanced by a Hemispherical combustion chamber which also made way for better airflow. Desoto Firedome 1955 model produced 245 lb-ft of torque and 185 horsepower which may seem lower when compared with muscle cars. It was a front-engine RWD with 3-speed manual gearbox. The overall top speed for the vehicle was 100mph which was good. As it was a sedan, the engineering was great for this Desoto model.
Forward Look Designs
The entire styling of the Desoto Firedome was changed by popular designer Virgil Exner. It kickstarted the Forward Look styling with tailfins, rear fender flares, wide stance, and bold chromium grille. Another change was the single headlight instead of the regular dual headlights. The rear part was the gamechanger with tailfins and rounded fenders. Virgil Exner’s design was the major reason for the success of this edition. He reshaped the vehicle and gave it a completely new look.
Features
The Forward Look era vehicles had great features. Desoto Firedome 55′ model included power steering, AC, AM radio, hydraulic drum brakes, and Hydraulic valve lifters. The front suspension was available with coil springs. Speedometer cluster and gauges were equipped with the dashboard. Desoto Firedome was a comfort vehicle with bench seats and large trunk space. 6 passengers were able to sit. It was sleeker than previous models. The overall features for this Desoto Firedome model were amazing.
It Was Another Comfortable Vehicle
Desoto Firedome was a sedan loved by families. Apart from the styling, it was a comfort vehicle. The soft suspension, hemi engines, technology, and bench seats made sure the driving experience was great. Passengers felt comfortable even during long drives. The power steering was a great addition to the vehicle. The 55 Firedome model was one of the best comfortable vehicles from Desoto. It didn’t offer great endurance, but was relatively a durable vehicle powered by hemi V8 engines and steel body construction.
Successful Model
Out of the three generations of Desoto Firedome, the 55 model was the best selling. The second-generation was the most successful with more than 2 lakh units getting sold. Around 2.25 lakhs of Desoto Firedome units were sold between 1955 to 1956. After 1956, the decline of Desoto Firedome was inevitable and the production was stopped eventually. It is safe to say the Forward Look era vehicles revived the market for Desoto.
Sold at A Moderate Price
The second-generation Desoto Firedome was sold for $2,500 USD. This was a big cost in the 50s, but it was completely affordable for its features. People bought this as it was a sedan with amazing features. The inflation for Firedome is huge, but it’s rare to see a vehicle with these features and designs right now. Some units of the 55′ model are available with collector market owners.