| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1958 |
| Production Years: | 1957 - 1958 discontinued in 1958 |
Precise measurements of the 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5499 mm216.5 in18.0 ft |
| Width: | 1989 mm78.3 in6.5 ft |
| Height: | 1443 mm56.8 in4.7 ft |
| Ground Clearance: | 142 mm5.6 in0.5 ft |
The 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible is a striking classic American cabriolet produced during the 1957-1958 production period. Known for its bold, expansive styling emblematic of late 1950s automotive design, the Firesweep Convertible combines generous proportions with elegant roadster appeal. Measuring 5499 mm (216.3 inches) in length, it provides a spacious presence on the road, complemented by a substantial width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches), delivering a wide and stable stance typical of the era's full-size vehicles. The vehicle’s height stands at 1443 mm (56.8 inches), giving it a low-slung, sleek profile that accentuates its aerodynamic coupé characteristics while maintaining convertible versatility. Ground clearance is modest at 142 mm (5.6 inches), striking a balance between road handling and style. As a cabriolet, the Firesweep I Convertible caters to an enthusiast seeking both classic style and open-air driving excitement, representative of DeSoto’s objective to offer mid-range luxury with sporty flair. This model’s dimensions reflect the era’s trend of larger, more spacious vehicles that prioritized comfort and presence, making the Firesweep I Convertible a noteworthy icon within the mid-century American automotive landscape.
Discover the standout features that make the 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible a leader in its class
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The 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible measures 5499 mm (216.4 inches) in length, 1989 mm (78.3 inches) in width, and 1443 mm (56.8 inches) in height. These dimensions highlight its classic mid-century American convertible stance, emphasizing a broad and low profile that enhances its aesthetic appeal and road presence.
With a width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches), the 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible is notably wider than many contemporary mid-sized cars, which typically range from 1800 to 1900 mm. This broader stance contributes to greater interior spaciousness and stable handling characteristics typical of 1950s American convertibles.
The Firesweep I Convertible has a ground clearance of 142 mm (5.6 inches), which is relatively low by modern standards. This lower ride height improves aerodynamic stability and cornering ability, but it also means the car can be susceptible to scraping on steep driveways or rough roads, reflecting the era's focus on style and road handling.
With a height of 1443 mm (56.8 inches), the 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible is well within the clearance of a standard garage doorway, which generally requires about 2100 mm (83 inches) height clearance. Thus, parking the convertible in most residential garages should be hassle-free, making it practical for daily use or storage.
At 5499 mm (216.4 inches) in length, the Firesweep I Convertible is relatively long when compared to many modern vehicles. This extended length enhances ride comfort and interior space but can make maneuvering in tight urban environments and parking in small spaces more challenging, requiring careful driver attention.
The Firesweep series was introduced in 1957 as a fresh offering, so it effectively replaced earlier DeSoto models like the Firedome. Compared to its predecessor lineup, the Firesweep I Convertible maintained similar overall dimensions but introduced styling updates and engineering refinements. Its size remained in the full-size category, offering comparable cabin and trunk space but with improved aesthetics and handling.
The 1958 DeSoto Firesweep I Convertible shares its large, wide stance typical of late 1950s American convertibles, similar to models like the Pontiac Catalina and Chrysler New Yorker convertibles. Its dimensions and design embody the era's preference for broad, low-slung vehicles with prominent tail fins and chrome detailing. While its size is comparable to its peers, the Firesweep stands out for its distinctive styling cues unique to the DeSoto brand.
The Firesweep I Convertible's height of 1443 mm (56.8 inches) is lower than many contemporary sedans, reflecting the lowered roofline and open-top convertible design. Sedans of this era typically had greater height to accommodate a fixed roof and higher seating positions. This lower height gives the Firesweep a sporty, sleek profile and reduces aerodynamic drag.
The generous width of 1989 mm (78.3 inches) and length of 5499 mm (216.4 inches) create a spacious interior for a convertible, allowing for comfortable seating for four passengers with ample shoulder room. However, convertible designs often compromise rear headroom due to the folding top mechanism, so while lateral space is abundant, rear passenger head clearance might be reduced compared to sedans.
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