1956 DeSoto Fireflite Convertible Pace Car

In 1955, DeSoto unveiled Virgil Exner's fresh new 'Forward Look' lineup, and sales nearly doubled over the previous year. Their flagship for 1955 was the FireFlite. It had a plush interior and, like all DeSotos, was powered by Chrysler's Firedome Hemi V8 engine with a choice of either a 3-speed manual or push-button operated Powerflite automatic transmissions.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Tony Hulman and his organizing committee chose the FireFlite as the Official Pace Car of the 1956 Indy 500, citing its 'outstanding performance and superb handling characteristics.' DeSoto produced about 400 Pacesetter special-edition convertibles with White and Gold paint to commemorate the honor and supplied dealerships with stencils to recreate the lettering on the official race vehicles.

This particular restored example is formerly part of the Charlie Thomas Collection. It has seen little use in recent years. It has vinyl lettering, a power-operated Saddle vinyl top, Gold vinyl upholstery with tweed seat and door inserts, and a rare Highway Hi-Fi 45 RPM record player. Other features include special-edition Gold wheel covers, a power front seat, power steering, a dash-mounted clock, a push-button radio with dual power rear antennas, and a well-detailed trunk and undercarriage.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2016