DeSoto Firesweep

DeSoto Firesweep
1958 DeSoto Firesweep 4-door Sportsman
Overview
Manufacturer	DeSoto (Chrysler)
Also called	DeSoto Diplomat (export)
Production	1957-1959
Assembly	Los Angeles (Maywood) Assembly United States Australia
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size
Body style	4-door sedan 2-door hardtop 4-door hardtop 2-door convertible 4-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Related	Chrysler Windsor Dodge Coronet Plymouth Belvedere
Powertrain
Engine	325 cu in (5.3 L) V8 350 cu in (5.7 L) V8 361 cu in (5.9 L) V8
Chronology
Predecessor	DeSoto Firedome

The DeSoto Firesweep is an automobile which was produced by DeSoto from 1957 through 1959.

The Firesweep was a lower-priced entry which combined a Dodge shell and chassis with a DeSoto bumper and grill. 1957 models were sold only as imports in Canada. While the Firesweep featured DeSoto's signature tailfins, the front clip (the front section, forward of the firewall) was based on the Dodge Coronet. The most telling feature was the headlight design, housed under heavily chromed lids typical of Dodge. Firesweep grilles were similar to those on other contemporary DeSoto models.

The Firesweep could seat six passengers. It was available initially as a four-door sedan, four-door station wagon, two-door hardtop and four-door hardtop. A convertible was added for 1958. Depending on the body style, Firesweeps weighed between 3,660 and 3,980 lb (1,660 and 1,674 kg). The base price of the Firesweep (1957) was US$3,169 and it was offered in one and two-tone exterior finishes. Features included power steering, power brakes, dashboard clock, push-button radio and whitewall tires.

1957 DeSoto Firesweep 4 Door Sedan

1958 DeSoto Firesweep 4 Door Sportsman

The first year of the car’s production, 1957, was the best year for Firesweep sales. A decline in DeSoto quality and increasing market pressures led to the end of the Firesweep’s production at the end of the 1959 model year. During 1959 Firesweep cars carried only DeSoto external nameplates.

For 1960, DeSoto automobiles came in two series, Fireflite and the Adventurer.

The final Desoto model, lacking a series name, was offered for the 1961 model year. DeSoto production ended in November 1960.