1957 De Soto Fireflite Hardtop
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Artifact Overview
De Soto appealed to drivers who desired the cutting edge of technology. Soaring fins and an airy roof suggested military jet fighters. Pushbuttons replaced old-fashioned transmission levers. And De Sotos were powerful -- perfect for the new high-speed, four-lane turnpikes and the newly funded interstate highway system.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Automobile
Date Made
1957
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Made by Chrysler Corporation in Detroit, Michigan; designed by Virgil M. Exner.
Location
at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America
Object ID
93.151.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Metal
Glass (Material)
Vinyl
Rubber (Material)
Chromium
Cloth
Color
White (Color)
Blue
Dimensions
Height: 55 in
Width: 77 in
Length: 218 in
Weight: 4125 lbs
Inscriptions
On front hood and rear above license plate: DE SOTO
On left and right front fenders: SPORTSMAN
On rear fenders and on front dash above steering wheel: FIREFLITE
Specifications
Make & Model: 1957 De Soto Fireflite hardtop
Maker: Chrysler Corporation, Highland Park, Michigan
Engine: V-8, overhead valves, 341 cubic inches
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Height: 55 inches
Width: 78 inches
Wheelbase: 126 inches
Overall length: 218 inches
Weight: 4125 pounds
Horsepower: 295 at 4600 revolutions per minute
Pounds per horsepower: 14.0
Price: $3,671
Average 1957 wage: $4,546 per year
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 10 months
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