1956 DeSoto Fireflite Convertible Pace Car

Virgil Exner's fresh new 'Forward Look' lineup was introduced in 1955, capturing the public's imagination and admiration, and for DeSoto, sales nearly doubled over the previous year. The Fireflite was the new flagship for 1955, and like all DeSotos, it came equipped with Chrysler's Firedome Hemi V-8, with a choice of either a 3-speed manual or push-button operated Powerflite automatic transmission. Power increased the following year and the styling was even bolder, with the Powerflite now standard equipment. Marketed as 'Powered for the Super-Highway Age,' the 331 cubic-inch Hemi engine with dual 4-barrel carburetors produced 225 horsepower. Classic Exner styling cues included short tailfin extensions and spear-shaped side trim.

The 1956 Fireflite had richly appointed interiors with distinctive 'Gullwing' styled dash. The two-tone exterior finishes were complemented by restrained bright trim spears, a wide grille design with twin upright bars, smooth front bodylines, and restrained tailfins beginning underneath the C-pillars and terminating at the vertically stacked tail lamps. Body styles included a convertible, four-door Sedans and Hardtops, and a Sportsman two-door Hardtop Coupe.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Tony Hulman and his organizing committee were very impressed with the new Fireflite and unanimously chose it as the Official Pace Car of the 1956 Indy 500, citing its 'outstanding performance and superb handling characteristics.' To celebrate the occasion, 400 examples of the fully loaded Fireflites were branded 'Indianapolis Pacesetters,' and each one was finished in the two-tone white and gold color scheme of the car that paced the race.

The DeSoto Fireflite was in production for six seasons, from 1955 to 1960.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2024