Demoted to DeSoto's entry-level model in 1955, this Firedome still kept its V8 and got a bigger one — while the cheaper six-cylinder it replaced disappeared entirely.
Lead trim: Firedome 291 cu in V8 (185 hp, 1955) · up to 230 hp
DeSoto Firedome1955–1956
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Nobody in Burbles has spotted a DeSoto Firedome yet. See one on the street, point the app at it, and the first card is yours — with your @handle permanently credited on this page.
FactDemoted to DeSoto's entry-level model in 1955, this Firedome still kept its V8 and got a bigger one — while the cheaper six-cylinder it replaced disappeared entirely.
In 1955 Chrysler dropped the six-cylinder Powermaster and added the topline Fireflite, pushing the Firedome to entry level; it kept its V8 but enlarged from 276 to 291 c.i. with a larger bore, a power boost to 185 horsepower and a host of features and interior upgrades lacking in the Powermaster; a 2-speed Powerflite automatic was advertised as optional, though a 3-speed manual was officially standard (few were built). In 1956 the Firedome V-8 got another boost to 230 H.P., 45 more than the previous year; wheelbase 126 in.
Collectors Spotted in the DeSoto Firedome Lineage
No member has published a public street spot of the DeSoto Firedome yet — the First · Worldwide stamp is wide open.
Trims & Figures
2 published trims in the catalogue. A blank is a figure not recorded, not zero.
| Trim | Years | Engine | Power | Torque | 0–60 | Drive | Gearbox | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firedome 291 cu in V8 (185 hp, 1955) | 1955–1955 | 4.8 L V8 | 185 hp | — | — | RWD | — | — |
| Firedome 291 cu in V8 (230 hp, 1956) | 1956–1956 | 4.8 L V8 | 230 hp | — | — | RWD | — | — |
Owning one
We don’t estimate running costs for a car like this. What it costs depends on its condition, its specialist and how it is driven, and an average would mislead.
Owners’ builds
Nobody has claimed one yet.
Photographs
Even as rumors swirled that Chrysler was about to kill the DeSoto brand, the 1959 Firedome still shipped in 26 solid colors and 190 two-tone combinations.
Demoted to DeSoto's entry-level model in 1955, this Firedome still kept its V8 and got a bigger one — while the cheaper six-cylinder it replaced disappeared entirely.
The 1952 Firedome brought DeSoto its first V8 in more than two decades — the brand hadn't offered an eight-cylinder engine since 1931.
Rivals
Same body, same money, other badges — tap any card to flip.
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