1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:1957
Production Years:1956 - 1957 discontinued in 1957
1440 mm56.7 in4.7 ft
L: 5481 mm215.8 in18.0 ft | W: 1986 mm78.2 in6.5 ft
Length
5481 mm215.8 in18.0 ft
Width
1986 mm78.2 in6.5 ft
Height
1440 mm56.7 in4.7 ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:5481 mm215.8 in18.0 ft
Width:1986 mm78.2 in6.5 ft
Height:1440 mm56.7 in4.7 ft
Ground Clearance:137 mm5.4 in0.4 ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:1667 kg3675 lbs
Useful Information

About 1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan

The 1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan is a classic American full-size sedan produced during the short span of 1956 to 1957. This vehicle represents the stylish mid-century automotive design with elegant yet robust proportions. It measures an impressive 5481 mm (215.8 inches) in length, providing spacious cabin room and a commanding road presence. The wide stance is marked by a width of 1986 mm (78.2 inches), contributing to stability and road handling, while the relatively low height of 1440 mm (56.7 inches) emphasizes a sleek and streamlined silhouette for the era. Weighing in at 1667 kg (3675 lbs) curb weight, the Firesweep I sedan balances solid construction with an emphasis on comfortable ride quality. The ride height or ground clearance stands at 137 mm (5.4 inches), suitable for smooth urban and highway driving, typical of sedans designed in the late 1950s. Overall, the 1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan embodies the classic large American sedan category with substantial dimensions, reflecting both luxury and practical design cues that catered to families and individuals seeking a refined vehicle during this historic automotive period.

Exceptional Features

1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan a leader in its class

Engine

Powered by a 291 cubic inch (4.8L) V8 engine, offering robust performance for its time.

Design

Distinctive 1950s styling with chrome accents, two-tone paint options, and a spacious 4-door sedan body.

Transmission

Equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission, with an optional 3-speed PowerFlite automatic transmission for ease of driving.

Interior

Comfortable seating for six, featuring cloth or optional vinyl upholstery and dashboard instrumentation typical of the era.

Safety and Convenience

Basic safety features including drum brakes and seat belts, with convenience features such as AM radio and heater standard or optional.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.

The 1957 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan features a length of 5481 mm (approximately 215.8 inches or 17.98 feet), a width of 1986 mm (about 78.2 inches or 6.5 feet), and a height of 1440 mm (56.7 inches or 4.7 feet). These dimensions make the Firesweep a spacious classic full-size sedan designed for comfort and road presence typical of mid-1950s American cars.

The 1957 Firesweep I 4-Door Sedan has a curb weight of approximately 1667 kg (3675 lbs), reflecting its robust build and full-size sedan stature. Its ride height or ground clearance is 137 mm (5.4 inches), which aligns with typical sedans from that era, providing sufficient clearance for varied road conditions while maintaining a low center of gravity for driving stability.

Standard residential garages typically measure around 2440 mm (8 feet) wide and 4877 mm (16 feet) deep. With its width of 1986 mm (6.5 feet) and length of 5481 mm (17.98 feet), the Firesweep is narrower than a typical garage but slightly longer. This means it might fit in a garage width-wise comfortably, but the length may be slightly tight or require a garage with extra length or a driveway accommodating some overhang.

The 1957 Firesweep I was a refreshed model following earlier DeSoto Firesweeps from 1955 and 1956. Compared to its predecessors, the '57 model generally maintained similar exterior dimensions, emphasizing longer and wider body proportions in line with American automotive trends of the mid-50s. However, incremental styling updates such as sleeker rooflines slightly lowered the height and enhanced aerodynamics, while overall size stayed roughly on par with its predecessor, sustaining the spacious interior and comfortable ride.

When compared to contemporary full-size sedans such as the 1957 Chrysler Windsor or the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, the Firesweep's length of 5481 mm (215.8 inches) is quite competitive, generally aligning with or exceeding many full-size sedans of the era. Its width of 1986 mm (78.2 inches) also placed it within the typical range for American sedans, providing roomy interiors. The Firesweep stood out with its combination of size, stylish design, and performance, allowing it to compete effectively in the full-size market.

The Firesweep I sedan's height of 1440 mm (56.7 inches) gave the car a relatively low profile for a 1950s full-size sedan, contributing to a sleek look and improved aerodynamics for its time. The ride height or ground clearance of 137 mm (5.4 inches) balanced sufficient road clearance with stable handling, enabling comfortable cruising on the 1950s road infrastructure while keeping the center of gravity low to improve driving dynamics and passenger comfort.

With an exterior width of 1986 mm (78.2 inches) and a length of 5481 mm (215.8 inches), the Firesweep offers spacious seating arrangements typical of 1950s American sedans. Despite body panel thickness, the cabin comfortably accommodates up to six passengers with generous legroom and shoulder room for its class. The wide body ensures front and rear passengers enjoy ample space, making it ideal for family use and long drives, consistent with the luxury and comfort ethos DeSoto pursued.

At approximately 1667 kg (3675 lbs), the 1957 Firesweep's curb weight is typical for a full-size sedan of the mid-1950s. Heavier than compact and mid-size cars of the time due to its robust steel construction and luxury equipment, this weight contributes to a solid feel and smooth ride quality. It balances well with the Firesweep's powerful engines of the era, delivering a confident performance befitting a premium sedan designed for comfort and presence.

The Firesweep I's generous dimensions—long length, wide stance, and comfortable height—combined to create an attractive package that appealed strongly to buyers seeking full-size comfort with stylish flair. Its size allowed for spacious interiors and smooth rides, fitting the era's preference for cars that served as both family vehicles and status symbols. The practical yet elegant dimensions made it adaptable to American roads and lifestyles, fostering its appeal from 1956 to 1957.

The sizeable exterior dimensions of the Firesweep—especially its length of 5481 mm (17.98 feet) and width of 1986 mm (6.5 feet)—mean that maneuvering in tight urban spaces or parking lots requires care and skill. Drivers should be mindful of the car's turning radius and condition as the Firesweep, like many sedans of its generation, lacks modern power steering and parking aids. However, with its moderate height (1440 mm or 56.7 inches), visibility should aid the driver in maneuvering safely.

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