1959 DeSoto Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III weighs 1869 kg (4,120 lbs) curb weight. This relatively substantial weight for a coupe of its era influences both ride quality and engine performance. The robust chassis and full-size construction add to safety and stability at cruising speeds. However, the weight also means the car may require a powerful engine to provide strong acceleration and maintain competitive fuel efficiency for the period. It reflects the era's emphasis on comfort and road presence over lightweight performance.

The 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III has a ground clearance of 142 mm (5.6 inches). This relatively low ride height enhances its stability and handling, especially on paved roads common in the late 1950s. The lower clearance also contributes to the coupe's sporty aesthetic and helps reduce aerodynamic drag. However, it also means drivers need to be cautious on uneven surfaces or speed bumps to avoid underside damage.

Standard home garage dimensions typically measure around 2.4 meters (8 feet) in width and 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length. With a width of 1.999 meters (approximately 6.6 feet) and length of 5.616 meters (18.4 feet), the 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman should fit comfortably within a majority of standard garage spaces. However, it may take up most of the available length in tighter garages, so owners should consider clearance space for opening doors and maneuvering when parking.

At 1999 mm (78.7 inches) wide, the 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III is wider than many contemporary American and European coupes from the late 1950s. This broad width gives the Fireflite an expansive interior and enhances road presence. While many coupes of the era typically ranged from 1800 to 1900 mm in width, the Fireflite pushes the envelope with almost 2 meters of lateral space, emphasizing comfort and luxury in addition to sporty styling.

Compared to the earlier Fireflite II and initial Fireflite models produced before 1959, the Fireflite III maintains a very similar footprint in length and width but features updates in styling and trim details due to its 1959 facelift. The dimensions of the Fireflite III remained largely consistent to retain its full-size status, measuring 5616 mm (221.1 inches) in length and 1999 mm (78.7 inches) in width. These incremental size adjustments were typical of model year facelifts during this period, focusing more on aesthetics than structural changes.

When compared to similar full-size American coupes from 1959, such as the 1959 Chrysler New Yorker or 1959 Dodge Royal Lancer, the Fireflite III is competitive in dimensions. Its length of 5616 mm (221.1 inches) is on the longer side, while its width of nearly 2 meters stands out as wider than many rivals, providing a roomy cabin. The coupe's relatively low height of 1397 mm (55 inches) aligns with the low-slung styling trends of the era, making the Fireflite III distinctive yet comfortable alongside its contemporaries.

The 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III has a height of 1397 mm (55 inches), which is relatively low compared to other cars of its size. This low height contributes to the car’s sleek, aerodynamic profile, enhancing its sporty coupe appearance. However, the reduced vertical dimension may marginally limit headroom inside the cabin, especially for taller passengers. The design balances exterior style with interior comfort typical for late 1950s full-size coupes.

The 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman typically featured a powerful V8 engine, often a 383 cubic inch (6.3L) HEMI V8, delivering ample horsepower typical of the era’s muscle and luxury cars. This V8 engine offered solid acceleration, smooth power delivery, and reliable cruising performance for the full-size coupe segment. Combining this engine with the car’s relatively heavy curb weight of 1869 kg (4120 lbs) resulted in comfortable highway cruising and a commanding presence on the road.

The 1959 DeSoto Fireflite III Two-Door Sportsman stands as a compelling choice for classic car collectors due to its distinct styling and full-size coupe appeal. Its size—spacious yet sleek—reflects the pinnacle of late-1950s American automotive design. Ownership can provide a nostalgic driving experience with ample interior room and historic significance, as the DeSoto brand ceased production shortly after the 1961 model year. The Fireflite III's combination of size, weight, and sporty design makes it an appealing classic for enthusiasts.