1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe (facelift 1958) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe's width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches) was relatively broad for a coupe in the late 1950s. Many competitors averaged widths closer to 1800-1900 mm (70.9-74.8 inches). This extra width enhanced occupant comfort and contributed to the car’s wide stance on the road, improving stability and aesthetic appeal. It also underscored DeSoto's approach to creating a luxurious and spacious vehicle compared to smaller or more compact models available at the time.

The 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe has a ground clearance of 140 mm (5.5 inches). This moderate clearance is typical of full-sized coupes from the era, balancing the need for a smooth ride with adequate clearance to handle typical road conditions without bottoming out. While not designed for off-road use, this clearance was sufficient for city streets and highway driving, offering sufficient protection to the underbody while maintaining a sporty, low-slung appearance.

Standard residential garage dimensions typically range around 2440 mm (8 feet) width, 4880 mm (16 feet) length, and approximately 2130-2440 mm (7-8 feet) overhead clearance. The 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe is quite long and wide, measuring 5552 mm (218.5 inches) in length and 1989 mm (78.3 inches) in width. Given these dimensions, it would not fit comfortably, or at all, into many standard garages without modifications or extra space, especially because it exceeds the typical garage length by over half a meter (about 21.5 inches). Limited maneuvering space and clearance would make parking this classic car in a standard garage challenging.

With a height of 1397 mm (55 inches), the 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe has a relatively low and sleek roofline, contributing to a reduced frontal area and a more aerodynamic shape compared to taller vehicles of the time. This low stature helped diminish wind resistance and enhance high-speed stability. While modern aerodynamic principles were less emphasized in the 1950s, the lower height also added to the sportier and more stylish profile that appealed to buyers looking for a performance-oriented and visually striking coupe.

The curb weight of the 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe is 1912 kg (4214 lbs). This substantial weight is representative of its robust build, large body dimensions, and the heavy steel construction typical of vehicles from this era. While the weight contributes to a solid, stable ride and helps absorb road imperfections, it also means the car may have slower acceleration and less nimble handling compared to lighter vehicles. The heavy mass affects braking distances and cornering abilities, but it also contributes to a comfortable and smooth cruising experience on highways.

The 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe was a facelift and continuation of the earlier Adventurer models produced from 1957 onwards. Compared to its 1957 predecessor, this generation maintained similarly large dimensions, with slight design updates including more pronounced tailfins, updated front grille styling, and improved trim details. The length, width, and curb weight remained broadly similar, emphasizing continuity in the car’s spacious and powerful character. The facelift focused on freshening aesthetic appeal rather than drastically changing size, keeping it competitive in the full-size luxury coupe segment.

Dimensionally, the 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe was comparable in length and width to other full-size American coupes like the 1958 Cadillac Coupe De Ville and 1958 Buick Roadmaster. For example, the Cadillac Coupe De Ville measured about 5720 mm (225.2 inches) long and 1997 mm (78.6 inches) wide, slightly longer and wider than the DeSoto. Buick Roadmaster models had comparable lengths around 5718 mm (225 inches). DeSoto's Adventurer II had a slightly lower height, emphasizing sportiness. Thus, while slightly smaller in length than top-tier luxury coupes, the Adventurer held its own in spaciousness and presence within the segment.

The 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe was designed as a two-door coupe primarily seating up to four or five passengers, depending on configuration. Its generous width of nearly 2 meters (78.3 inches) allowed for comfortable seating front and rear, although rear-seat legroom was naturally more limited than in sedans. The interior prioritized luxury with cushioned bench seats, stylish upholstery, and ample headroom aided by the relatively low roof height balanced against a spacious cabin footprint. While exact interior measurements vary, the vehicle offered a roomy and comfortable environment typical of premium American coupes of the 1950s.

The 1958 DeSoto Adventurer II Coupe's distinctive size and design embody the extravagant styling of late-1950s American automobiles, featuring striking tailfins, chrome accents, and a commanding road presence. Its larger dimensions contribute to its road-hugging stance and luxurious appeal. Today, these characteristics make it highly collectible among vintage car enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of size, style, and historical significance. The car's rarity, combined with its grand size and sleek lines, place it as a prized classic that showcases the peak of DeSoto's design era shortly before the brand was discontinued.