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

This 1958 Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman has a curb weight of approximately 1864 kilograms (4111 pounds), reflecting its heavy build typical of American cars from the era. Its ground clearance is about 140 mm (5.5 inches), which means it has a relatively low ride height contributing to good road stability but requiring caution on uneven terrain.

The Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman provides seating primarily for four passengers, typical for a coupe design of its time. The interior is spacious for front occupancy and reasonably comfortable in rear, although two-door arrangements limit ease of rear access. The car's wide width of nearly 2 meters (78.3 inches) allows for a roomy cabin, balancing comfort and style amid its cruising focus.

Standard modern garages typically measure around 2438 mm (8 ft) wide and 4877 mm (16 ft) deep. At 1989 mm (78.3 inches) wide and 5552 mm (218.5 inches) long, the Fireflite III is quite wide and longer than the average garage in depth. It will fit in width-wise with limited side clearance but the length may require a deeper garage or parking space, making tight garage storage somewhat challenging.

Compared to the earlier DeSoto Fireflite models from 1956-1957, the 1958 Fireflite III received a facelift but retained nearly the same dimensions. Typically, the length, width, and height saw minimal changes, with only subtle styling updates affecting aerodynamic and visual presence. In essence, the 1958 model’s size is consistent with its predecessor but updates improved modernity and curb appeal.

When compared to similar full-size American coupes like the 1958 Chevrolet Impala or the 1958 Ford Fairlane, the DeSoto Fireflite III stands out by being slightly longer and notably wider than many competitors. This wide stance at nearly 2 meters (78.3 inches) broad conveys a more commanding road presence, though its length at over 5.5 meters (218.5 inches) also surpasses typical measurements, emphasizing its luxury full-size status during that era.

The 1958 DeSoto Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman is a stylish coupe, designed with two doors and a sporty yet elegant appearance. This vehicle type focuses on a balance of performance and style, intended for those desiring a luxurious yet sport-oriented driving experience during the late 1950s, reflecting the trends of American automotive design.

The 1958 facelift brought subtle but notable visual updates to the Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman including revised front and rear fascias, updated grille designs, and new trim detailing. These refreshed elements modernized the look without altering the overall size or structural dimensions. It enhanced the appeal of an already sophisticated coupe by aligning it with contemporary styling trends of the late 1950s.

A ground clearance of 140 mm (5.5 inches) is relatively low, especially when compared to modern SUVs or off-road vehicles, but typical for a luxury American coupe of the 1950s. This ride height favors stability and handling on paved roads, making the Fireflite III well suited for urban and suburban driving. However, drivers should be cautious over speed bumps or rough surfaces due to the limited clearance.

With a curb weight of approximately 1864 kg (4111 lbs), the Fireflite III is a relatively heavy vehicle. This weight contributes to a stable and planted ride at higher speeds, characteristic of luxury cars of the period, enhancing comfort. However, the heaviness may result in slower acceleration and less agile handling compared to lighter vehicles. The weight reflects construction materials and the robust build quality common in 1950s American cars.