Highlights
- Fabulous Fifties design
- Nicely restored
- Great condition
The Appeal
Surely no car embodies the Fifties US automotive design ethos more than the Desoto Fireflite? With distinctive tail fins, a generous helping of chrome and beautiful detailing inside and out, this range-topper of the time is quite something to behold. And with a 6.3 litre V8 under the bonnet, it’s no slouch either.
This example has been nicely restored in its native USA at some stage and, although sadly the records of exactly where and when have gone astray, it remains in beautiful condition. A delightful Mopar soundtrack is matched by strong performance which makes it a very desirable piece of automotive Americana.
The History and Paperwork
- Built 1959
- Restored at some stage, although it’s not known exactly when
- Last owner acquired it in the US and imported it to the UK in 2008
- Some invoices for maintenance under last owner
- Original owner’s handbook
- MOT exempt
- V5 present
The Interior
- Retrimmed upholstery
- Original fixtures and fittings
- Great condition
With bench seats that can accommodate six, fully retrimmed upholstery and a dashboard that oozes style, the cabin is both eye-catching and practical. The seats and carpets are in excellent condition, while up above the headlining is clean and secure.
The dashboard has the original radio fitted and all of the dials, buttons and switches are said to be in full working order. The capacious boot houses a full size spare wheel and is also trimmed in carpet to match the cabin. Overall, the interior is as good as you’re likely to find.
The Exterior
- Distinctive 50’s design
- Black paintwork
- Much chrome
Finished in black, with fabulous chrome detailing and those sizable tail fins, the Fireflite is an imposing presence. Stacked triple rear lights embrace jet age design and white wall tyres complete the look.
The paintwork remains in excellent condition and the chrome is also very good. The attractive wheel trims are unmarked all round and the aforementioned white wall tyres all have good tread remaining.
As the pictures show, the underside is in excellent condition, and the seller reports no signs of damage or corrosion. In all, it looks stunning.
The Mechanics
- 383 V8 (6.3 L)
- Powerflite automatic transmission
- Drives well
Under the bonnet there’s a great deal of engine and it’s very well presented. The seller describes the sound of it as a beautiful V8 burble and reports that it accelerates strongly, brakes well and in a straight line and changes gear smoothly. With no leaks or smoking reported, this Fireflite is ready to be enjoyed.
Summary
A fabulous looking, well preserved and well maintained fifties American coupe that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller’s discretion.
