1958 DeSoto Firedome III Two-Door Sportsman (facelift 1958) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 1958 DeSoto Firedome III Two-Door Sportsman has a curb weight of approximately 1821 kg (4015 lbs). This weight is reflective of its robust build and substantial metal construction common in the era. While heavier than many modern vehicles, this weight provides the car with a solid road presence and comfort, though it may limit quick acceleration compared to lighter cars. The heft also contributes to a steady and smooth ride on highways.

The ride height or ground clearance of the 1958 DeSoto Firedome III is 140 mm (5.5 inches). This clearance is typical for passenger coupes of its time, providing a balanced compromise between road-hugging stability and enough clearance to manage uneven surfaces and occasional rough patches. While adequate for paved and moderately rough roads, it is not intended for off-road or highly uneven terrain.

The 1958 DeSoto Firedome III measures 5552 mm (218.5 inches) in length and 1989 mm (78.3 inches) in width, which is quite large by modern standards. Standard residential garages typically measure around 6000 mm (236 inches) deep and roughly 3000 mm (118 inches) wide, so the Firedome III should fit into the length and width of a standard garage if there is enough clearance around the sides for opening doors and maneuverability. However, because the car is wide and long, tight garages might be more challenging to park in, and caution is advised.

Compared to its predecessor, the 1957 DeSoto Firedome models, the 1958 Firedome III featured slight updates but maintained similar overall dimensions. The length and width remained largely comparable, preserving the big and bold full-size American coupe experience. The facelift mostly improved styling rather than significantly changing size. The 1958 model might have minor refinements in ride height or weight but essentially continues the large, commanding presence of its predecessor.

The 1958 DeSoto Firedome III Two-Door Sportsman is comparable in size to other American full-size coupes of the late 1950s such as the Chrysler Windsor and Dodge Royal. Its length of 5552 mm (218.5 inches) and width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches) reflect the era's preference for large, roomy vehicles with spacious interiors. While slightly wider than some competitors, the Firedome III's proportions emphasize luxury and comfort typical of its class, making it one of the more dominant presences on the road among similar models.

Given its substantial exterior dimensions—5552 mm (218.5 inches) long and 1989 mm (78.3 inches) wide—the 1958 Firedome III offers generous interior space for passengers typical of full-size American coupes. Although specific interior measurements vary, the broad width allows for comfortable seating for up to four passengers with ample shoulder room and a spacious front and rear bench seat. The coupe design prioritizes sportiness but still ensures a roomy cabin with enough headroom given the 1450 mm (57.1 inches) height.

The 1958 facelift of the DeSoto Firedome III Two-Door Sportsman brought stylistic updates that refreshed the car's appearance while retaining its classic full-size coupe charm. Key upgrades included revised front and rear styling elements such as updated grilles, new tailfin treatments, and other trim changes that enhanced its visual appeal and modernity for the time. These changes aimed to keep the model competitive in a rapidly evolving automotive market without altering underlying dimensions or mechanical structure.

Yes, the 1958 DeSoto Firedome III Two-Door Sportsman is considered a classic and collectible car, mainly due to DeSoto's brand heritage and the vehicle's distinctive styling from the late 1950s. Limited production years, combined with its iconic V8 Firedome engine and period-specific design elements like tailfins and chrome accents, make it a sought-after model for vintage car enthusiasts. Its rarity, historical value, and the classic American V8 coupe appeal contribute greatly to its collectibility.

While offering a nostalgic driving experience with powerful V8 performance and spacious accommodations, the 1958 DeSoto Firedome III Two-Door Sportsman's large size (5552 mm length, 1989 mm width) and significant curb weight of 1821 kg (4015 lbs) make it less practical for modern daily use. Maneuvering in tight urban environments and parking can be challenging. Additionally, older suspension and braking technologies may not provide the same safety and comfort as modern vehicles, so owners often use this car more as a weekend cruiser or collector's item rather than everyday transport.