1958 DeSoto Firesweep Convertible Coupe

The Firesweep was DeSoto's lowest-priced convertible model in 1958. Measuring 216 inches in length, the Firesweep wore its space-age 'Forward Look' styling well. This is one of only 700 convertibles built and is believed to be one of only twelve surviving examples.

Loaded with rare and special equipment, this Firesweep features the Spring Special dress-up package, which includes bright filler panels in the side sweeps and chrome strips on the rear deck. A seldom-seen novelty is the Benrus self-winding watch located in the center of the steering wheel. And if that's not special enough, there is a factory-optional under-dash record player, with records provided by Chrysler.

Performance worthy of the Firesweep name is provided by a 280 horsepower 350 cubic-inch Wedge V8 engine backed by the Torque-Flite automatic transmission with pushbutton controls.

Situated between Chrysler and Dodge in the late-fifties Chrysler Corporation hierarchy, DeSoto faced intense competitive pressure from above and below in 1958. In an attempt to broadly cover the market, four series of DeSoto were offered for '58. This included the most economical Firesweep, the mid-level Firedome, the luxury-level Fireflight, and the high-performance Adventurer. In an interesting move, convertibles were offered in each series.

Following a severely disappointing year in 1958, DeSoto sales continued to decline in 1959 and 1960. After a brief run of 1961 models, the marque was discontinued.