| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1958 |
| Production Years: | 1957 - 1958 discontinued in 1958 |
Precise measurements of the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5552 mm218.6 in18.2 ft |
| Width: | 1989 mm78.3 in6.5 ft |
| Height: | 1450 mm57.1 in4.8 ft |
| Ground Clearance: | 140 mm5.5 in0.5 ft |
The 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible represents the classic American automotive design of the late 1950s, with a production period spanning from 1957 to 1958. As a facelift version known as the Fireflite III, this cabriolet model features an impressive and commanding presence on the road, highlighted by its considerable size. Measuring 5552 mm (218.5 inches) in length, it dominated the streets with a wide stance of 1989 mm (78.3 inches), complemented by a relatively low height of 1450 mm (57.1 inches), which gave it an elegant and sleek profile typical of classic convertibles of the era. The ride height of 140 mm (5.5 inches) provided a modest ground clearance suitable for smooth cruising rather than rugged terrain. This open-top vehicle embodied the luxury and style expected from DeSoto during its brief but memorable production span, featuring design cues and proportions that conveyed sophistication and prestige. Whether admired for its historical significance or its distinctive dimensions, the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible remains a fine example of mid-century American automotive craftsmanship and style.
Discover the standout features that make the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible a leader in its class
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The 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible has a length of 5552 mm (approximately 218.5 inches), which gives it a commanding presence on the road. Its width measures 1989 mm (about 78.3 inches), providing ample interior space and stability, while the height stands at 1450 mm (around 57.1 inches). These dimensions contribute to the car's classic American full-size convertible styling, offering both spacious seating and an elegant profile.
The ride height, also known as ground clearance, of the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible is 140 mm (roughly 5.5 inches). This relatively low clearance enhances the car's aerodynamic profile and provides better stability and handling on paved roads typical of its era. However, this ground clearance makes it less suitable for rough or uneven terrain, meaning the vehicle performs best in urban and suburban settings where the roads are smooth.
At 1989 mm (78.3 inches) wide, the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible offers a broad stance that not only enhances its road presence but also contributes to a roomy interior. This width allows for comfortable seating arrangements, accommodating passengers with generous shoulder room and helping to establish the model’s signature spaciousness. Additionally, the generous width improves stability and ride comfort, offering a solid feel when driving.
Fitting the sizable 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible inside a standard garage depends on the garage dimensions. With a length of 5552 mm (218.5 inches or approximately 18.2 feet) and a width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches or roughly 6.5 feet), the car requires a garage that can accommodate a full-size vehicle. Most standard garages are about 6 meters (20 feet) deep and around 3 meters (10 feet) wide for a single vehicle, so the Fireflite III will fit, but with limited additional space for storage or maneuvering. Owners might find tighter garages challenging.
The height of the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible at 1450 mm (57.1 inches) contributes to its sleek, low-slung convertible design. This relatively low height compared to other cars of the time improves aerodynamics by reducing air resistance, which was an emerging focus in car design during the late 1950s. It also enhances the car’s aesthetic appeal, giving it an elegant and sporty profile when the top is up or down. The lower height further improves stability by lowering the center of gravity, which is beneficial for handling.
Compared to its predecessor, the 1957 DeSoto Fireflite Convertible, the 1958 Fireflite III Convertible featured subtle but notable updates, mainly due to the facelift. The 1958 model retained the overall large dimensions but introduced updated front and rear styling including revised grille, bumpers, and taillight designs, which modernized its appearance. Dimensionally, the size remained largely similar, maintaining the grand scale: length around 5552 mm, width close to 1989 mm, and a low height giving it a classic full-size convertible stature with improved styling cues for a fresher, more contemporary look.
The 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible is comparable in size to other luxury American convertibles of the late 1950s, such as the Cadillac Series 62 Convertible and the Buick Roadmaster Convertible. Its length of 5552 mm (218.5 inches) and width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches) put it firmly in the full-size category, offering competitive interior space and road presence. While some competitors might be slightly longer or wider, the Fireflite’s dimensions are typical of American luxury convertibles focused on comfort, style, and highway cruising rather than compactness or nimbleness.
The DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible production spanned from 1957 to 1958, covering two model years. This generation represents the final, facelifted iteration of the Fireflite series before DeSoto was discontinued by Chrysler in the early 1960s. It was produced in relatively limited numbers compared to earlier full-size sedans, making it a prized collectible among classic car enthusiasts today.
The large dimensions of the 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible—with its length of 5552 mm (218.5 inches), width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches), and height of 1450 mm (57.1 inches)—make it a car that can feel quite big in modern urban settings. Tight city streets, small parking spaces, and narrow garages might pose challenges for maneuvering and parking. However, its relatively low ground clearance of 140 mm (5.5 inches) further requires careful driving on uneven surfaces. Despite these factors, its spacious interior and smooth ride are advantages for city cruising if space allows.
The 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Convertible offers a spacious and comfortable interior typical of late 1950s American luxury convertibles. Thanks to its 1989 mm (78.3 inches) width, the cabin allows ample shoulder room for front and rear passengers. Seating is designed to be plush, often with bench seats that could comfortably accommodate up to six passengers. The convertible top provides open-air driving enjoyment, while chrome and refined interior trimming accentuate luxury. The layout prioritized comfort and style for long-distance cruising and weekend leisure drives.
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