1955 DeSoto Fireflite I Four-Door Sedan Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Fireflite I Four-Door Sedan weighs approximately 1764 kg (3889 lbs) curb weight. This relatively heavy body contributes to a solid, stable ride and enhances the car's durability on the road. However, the weight also means the engine needs to be robust to deliver adequate acceleration and smooth highway cruising, typical of cars from its era.

The ride height of the Fireflite I sedan is about 160 mm (6.3 inches), which was common for vehicles of its period. This clearance provides a balance between smooth handling on paved roads and the capacity to handle less-than-perfect surfaces without frequent undercarriage damage, offering reasonable versatility in urban and suburban environments.

With its length of 5535 mm (217.9 inches) and width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches), the DeSoto Fireflite is quite sizable compared to many modern vehicles. Most standard garages, typically around 5500 mm (216 inches) deep and 2700 mm (106 inches) wide, can accommodate the car with a tight fit in length but ample width clearance. Careful parking is advisable due to its length nearing standard garage depth.

Compared to the earlier DeSoto Fireflite models produced before 1954, the 1955 Fireflite I featured similar overall dimensions but introduced design refinements for a sleeker, more modern look. The length remained near the 5.5-meter mark, with small changes improving interior space and road presence. Engineering enhancements also improved ride comfort without drastically altering exterior size.

The 1955 DeSoto Fireflite I sedan is comparable in size to other American full-size sedans such as the 1955 Dodge Royal and the 1955 Chrysler New Yorker, often ranging between 5400 mm and 5600 mm in length, with widths close to 2 meters (79 inches). Its size gives it a competitive edge in passenger space and road presence, typical of luxury and high-end models from that era.

Although exact interior dimensions for the 1955 Fireflite I are not broadly documented, its full-sized exterior dimensions translate into a roomy interior layout typical of 1950s American sedans. The four-door sedan can comfortably seat up to six passengers (three front, three rear) with ample legroom and headroom, reflecting design priorities of comfort and style during the period.

Given the Fireflite I’s substantial size and curb weight of 1764 kg (3889 lbs), fuel efficiency was modest compared to smaller vehicles but consistent with full-size sedans of its time. A larger body means more air resistance and weight to move, translating into fuel consumption that reflects the era's engineering norms. The extensive size, however, contributed to a smooth, comfortable ride favored for long-distance and family driving.

The 1955 Fireflite I brought in significant upgrades including a modernized V8 engine offering better performance and reliability compared to previous models. It featured stylish, sleek bodywork with chrome accents and improved suspension technology for enhanced ride comfort. These changes established the Fireflite I as a luxury vehicle option with contemporary appeal and stronger mechanical capabilities.

Compared to luxury sedans of the 1950s like the Cadillac Series 62 or the Lincoln Capri, the DeSoto Fireflite I was competitively sized, offering similar length and width, though sometimes a slightly lighter curb weight. Its distinctive styling, performance orientation, and availability at a more approachable price point made it a favored choice for buyers seeking classic American luxury with robust dimensions and notable road presence.