1959 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sportsman (facelift 1959) Dimensions, Size & Specs

This model stands at a height of 1394 mm (approximately 54.88 inches or 4.57 feet), offering a relatively low and sleek profile typical of the late 1950s sedans. It features a ride height or ground clearance of about 140 mm (5.5 inches), which balances a comfortable ride quality with sufficient clearance for everyday driving conditions.

The curb weight of this car is approximately 1767 kg (around 3895 pounds). This weight reflects the robust construction common for vehicles of this era, contributing to stable handling and a solid feel on the road, though it may impact fuel efficiency compared to modern lightweight vehicles.

Standard single-car garages typically range from about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 19.7 feet) in length. The DeSoto’s width of 1999 mm (approximately 2 meters or 6.56 feet) and length of 5514 mm (5.5 meters or 18.1 feet) means it will fit snugly in most standard garages lengthwise but with limited extra space for opening doors or storage. Width-wise, it’s close to the garage’s minimum, so care is needed for easy entry and exit.

The 1959 facelift version of the Firesweep I 4-Door Sportsman retained much of the basic size profile of the earlier Firesweep models produced between 1957 and 1958. With a length of 5514 mm and width of 1999 mm, the size was very similar or slightly adjusted, maintaining the vehicle’s substantial road presence. However, the facelift mainly involved styling updates rather than major dimensional changes, allowing the newer model to benefit from refreshed aesthetics while preserving cabin space and ride comfort.

Compared to contemporaries like the 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air or the 1959 Ford Fairlane, the DeSoto Firesweep I was comparable in length and width, typical for mid to full-size sedans of the late 1950s. Its length at 5514 mm aligns closely with these competitors, which generally measured between 5.4 and 5.6 meters. However, DeSoto's wider stance at nearly 2 meters enhanced interior space and road stability, offering a slightly more imposing presence.

While exact interior dimensions vary with seating arrangement, the Firesweep I's broad width and length generally translated to generous interior space, especially for front and rear passengers. The sedan configuration allowed comfortable seating for five adults with ample legroom and headroom. The relatively low roof height offered a sleek exterior profile but still maintained adequate occupant comfort typical of American sedans of that period.

A ground clearance of 140 mm is moderately low, promoting a lower center of gravity which usually aids handling and reduces body roll during driving. For the 1959 firesweep, this meant a stable and composed ride on paved roads typical for the era. However, this clearance requires caution on uneven roads or over obstacles to avoid scraping the car’s underside.

At approximately 1767 kg curb weight, the Firesweep I was fairly typical for its era and class. The solid construction provided durability and safety but contributed to a higher weight compared to later vehicles with modern lightweight materials. In comparison to predecessors or competitors, the weight might slightly fluctuate due to equipment differences or chassis reinforcements implemented during the 1959 facelift to improve ride quality and structural integrity.

The 1959 DeSoto Firesweep I 4-Door Sportsman is a classic full-size American sedan embodying late 1950s design with clean lines, chrome accents, and a long, sleek body. The 4-door Sportsman was aimed at customers seeking a stylish yet practical vehicle with spacious seating and smooth ride quality. The 1959 facelift primarily updated exterior styling and trim, while maintaining the reliable V8 engine options and sturdy chassis that defined the Firesweep series during its production from 1958 to 1959.