1955 DeSoto Firedome
For 1955, DeSoto adopted Virgil Exner’s “Forward Look” across a fully redesigned lineup, simultaneously dropping the six-cylinder Powermaster series and repositioning the Firedome as the entry-level offering below the new Fireflite. Though now the junior series, it retained Hemi V-8 power, the engine enlarged to 291 CI from the prior 276 and fitted with a two-barrel carburetor.
Outside, the styling was a significant departure from the 1954 cars. A broad grille with integrated parking lamps and bumper guards set the tone, and a new wraparound windshield improved forward sightlines.
One-year-only wheel covers carried the “DeS” script. The optional color sweep side panels (standard on Fireflite hardtops and convertibles) gave the body its characteristic two-tone look; without them, chrome bodyside molding with a slight kickup over the rear wheel opening was the default treatment.
Body styles included a four-door sedan, two-door Sportsman hardtop, convertible, and station wagon. The Powerflite two-speed automatic was optional alongside a standard three-speed manual. Total Firedome production for 1955 reached approximately 77,760 units, with the four-door sedan accounting for the largest share by a considerable margin.
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