1956 DeSoto Firedome II Station Wagon (facelift 1956) Dimensions, Size & Specs

At 1989 mm (78.3 inches) wide, the 1956 DeSoto Firedome II Station Wagon is wider than many modern sedans and even some SUVs. This width enhances interior comfort by providing expansive shoulder room for passengers, particularly in the front and rear bench seats. However, such width can make urban maneuvering or parking tighter in modern parking spaces, as parking infrastructure has downsized over the decades. Nevertheless, the extra width was common for vehicles of its class and era to maximize passenger and cargo space.

With a height of 1539 mm (60.6 inches), the 1956 DeSoto Firedome II Station Wagon is quite suitable for standard residential garages. Most modern garages have clearances between 1981 mm (78 inches or 6.5 feet) to 2133 mm (84 inches or 7 feet), so the car fits comfortably with ample overhead space. Its height does not pose any constraints, allowing easy storage without the need for modifications or special accommodations.

At 5552 mm (218.5 inches) in length, the 1956 Firedome II Station Wagon is considerably long, reflective of mid-20th-century American station wagons that emphasized roomy interiors and cargo space. This extended length can make parking in modern compact urban spaces more challenging, especially parallel parking spots designed for smaller cars. Maneuvering in tight city environments might require cautious planning. However, the long wheelbase contributes to a smooth ride and stable highway cruising, qualities valued in family-oriented wagons.

The 1956 DeSoto Firedome II Station Wagon was designed with ample cargo space typical of the era’s family wagons. Though exact cargo volume specifics are less commonly documented, its overall dimensions and wagon body style allowed for generous rear storage, especially with rear seats folded or removed. Compared to contemporaries such as the Chevrolet Nomad or Ford Ranch Wagon, the Firedome II offered competitive space, ensuring it met family hauling needs effectively. The tall roofline and flat floor gave it versatility uncommon in many modern compact SUVs.

The 1956 Firedome II Station Wagon was a facelifted version of the original Firedome Station Wagon (1952-1954). Dimensionally, the Firedome II grew slightly longer and wider, contributing to increased interior space and a more modern aesthetic appeal. Design upgrades included refreshed front grille styling and improved trim that gave the vehicle a sleeker and more contemporary 1950s look. Overall, the Firedome II improved upon its predecessor's comfort, utility, and visual presence while maintaining the robust mechanical characteristics that defined DeSoto's Firedome line.

When compared to similar mid-1950s American station wagons like the Chrysler Town & Country or Chevrolet Bel Air Wagon, the Firedome II stands out slightly for its width at 1989 mm (78.3 inches), which is on the broader side. Its length of 5552 mm (218.5 inches) positions it as one of the longer wagons of the time, contributing to more interior capacity and cargo volume. These dimensions paired with distinctive styling gave the Firedome II a commanding road presence, competing well in a market where spaciousness and style were key selling points.

Although precise weight data can vary, the 1956 DeSoto Firedome II Station Wagon typically weighed around 1800 to 1900 kilograms (approximately 4000 to 4200 pounds). This weight was standard for large American wagons of the era, impacting acceleration and fuel economy compared to lighter vehicles. The heavier body contributed positively to ride stability and a smooth cruiser experience on highways, but it required powerful V8 engines and robust suspension setups to maintain adequate performance and handling characteristics.

The 1956 Firedome II facelift marked an important evolution for the DeSoto Firedome Station Wagon. With refreshed styling cues like a bolder grille, updated lighting details, and subtle body contour changes, the vehicle maintained its classic charm while appearing more modern and upscale. These updates helped DeSoto compete against newer models during a flourishing automotive market in the mid-1950s, appealing strongly to buyers seeking both elegance and practicality in a large family wagon.

Yes, the 1956 DeSoto Firedome II Station Wagon fits comfortably inside a standard home garage. Typically, standard single-car garages provide internal dimensions around 2438 mm to 2743 mm (8 to 9 feet) wide and about 5486 mm to 6096 mm (18 to 20 feet) deep. The Firedome II is 1989 mm (78.3 inches) wide and 5552 mm (218.5 inches) long, which means it fits within the typical garage depth with little to moderate clearance. Its width also fits comfortably within garage widths, allowing enough space to open doors and maneuver inside the garage.