| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1954 |
| Production Years: | 1953 - 1954 discontinued in 1954 |
Precise measurements of the 1954 DeSoto Firedome Eight-Passenger, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5686 mm223.9 in18.7 ft |
| Width: | 1972 mm77.6 in6.5 ft |
| Height: | 1650 mm65.0 in5.4 ft |
The 1954 DeSoto Firedome Eight-Passenger Sedan represents a prominent example of mid-century American automotive design, produced during the 1953-1954 model years. This particular facelift iteration of the Firedome line reflects subtle styling updates with an emphasis on spaciousness and comfort for larger families or groups, boasting seating for eight passengers. Measuring an impressive 5686 mm (223.7 inches) in length, the Firedome notably earned its place among the larger sedans of the era, providing ample interior room and a commanding road presence. Its substantial width of 1972 mm (77.6 inches) enhances stability and cabin space, while the vehicle's height of 1650 mm (65.0 inches) contributes to a balanced profile typical of 1950s sedans. As a classic sedan with a wide stance and generous dimensions, the Firedome was designed to offer a premium driving experience encapsulated by its strong V8 engine performance and roomy eight-passenger capacity. Today, it stands as a celebrated example of DeSoto's engineering and styling prowess, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate both its historic significance and commanding size within the landscape of vintage American sedans.
Discover the standout features that make the 1954 DeSoto Firedome Eight-Passenger a leader in its class
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The 1954 DeSoto Firedome Eight-Passenger sedan measures 5686 mm (223.7 inches) in length, 1972 mm (77.6 inches) in width, and 1650 mm (64.96 inches) in height. These dimensions contribute to the vehicle's spacious interior and imposing street presence typical of 1950s American sedans.
With a width of 1972 mm (77.6 inches), the 1954 DeSoto Firedome Eight-Passenger is relatively wide by classic car standards. This wide stance offers excellent stability on the road but requires more attention when maneuvering in tight parking spaces, especially in urban environments where street parking is narrow.
The Firedome Eight-Passenger stands 1650 mm (64.96 inches) tall, providing ample headroom for passengers. Its taller roofline compared to modern sedans enhances interior comfort, especially for taller passengers, making it well-suited for luxury and family use during its production period.
The typical residential garage door width is about 2400 mm (94.5 inches), and its height is usually around 2130 mm (84 inches). Given the Firedome's width of 1972 mm (77.6 inches) and height of 1650 mm (64.96 inches), it will fit inside most standard garages comfortably in terms of space. However, the overall length of 5686 mm (223.7 inches or about 18.66 feet) means the garage parking space needs to be sufficiently deep, which standard single-car garages usually accommodate.
Compared to its predecessor from the 1953 model year, the 1954 Firedome Eight-Passenger features very similar dimensions since it was a facelift rather than a completely new generation. Both versions maintained the long and wide body typical of American sedans of the time, with only minor stylistic and mechanical changes. This kept the spacious interior intact while modernizing the exterior appearance.
In comparison to similar large American sedans from the early 1950s such as the Chrysler New Yorker or the Buick Roadmaster, the 1954 DeSoto Firedome Eight-Passenger is slightly shorter in length but comparable in width and height. Its length of 5686 mm (223.7 inches) is typical for full-size sedans, while the width of 1972 mm (77.6 inches) ensures it remains competitive in interior spaciousness.
As its name suggests, the Firedome Eight-Passenger model was configured to comfortably seat eight people, which is more than most sedans today. This was typically achieved by including a front bench seat and a wide rear bench seat, plus an additional occasional jump seat. The large exterior dimensions enabled excellent interior space, making it ideal for families or group travel.
The Firedome’s substantial length of 5686 mm (223.7 inches) means it has a longer wheelbase and larger turning radius compared to smaller vehicles. While this provides a smooth and stable ride on highways, it can make parking and negotiating tight city streets more challenging and requires experience and care when maneuvering.
The 1954 facelift of the DeSoto Firedome refined its styling with updated chrome accents, a redesigned grille, and revised tail fins to reflect the popular mid-1950s trends. While the fundamental body dimensions remained unchanged, these fresh elements gave the Firedome a more modern and attractive look, enhancing its market appeal without altering its spacious, comfortable nature.
At 1972 mm (77.6 inches) wide, the Firedome is wider than many modern mid-size sedans, which typically range from about 1800 mm (71 inches) to 1850 mm (73 inches). This extra width contributes to an impressive road presence and offers more shoulder room inside, though it may be less maneuverable in tight urban parking environments common today.
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