For years and years, there were four core brands at Chrysler: Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge, and DeSoto. However, by 1958 it was becoming apparent that Chrysler had too many players. While there was an industry contraction of about 20%, DeSoto sales tanked by 60%, eventually leading Chrysler to axe the brand in 1961 (after 35 years). Located in Bradenton, Florida, this rare Firesweep convertible looks to need everything and will be a challenge in anyone’s book. It’s available here on craigslist and you can take it home for $26,000. Our thanks to “Zappenduster” for the tip!
The Firesweep had a short life in the DeSoto portfolio (1957 to 1959). When the seller’s drop-top was built, it led off a series of four models that also included the Firedome, Fireflite, and Adventurer. It rode on a Dodge chassis with a shorter wheelbase than other models. But the Firesweep had DeSoto’s distinctive front clip and towering tailfins. The Firesweep drew its power from a 350 cubic inch V8 which was only used in ’58.
This rough DeSoto is one of just 700 Firesweep convertibles built that year – and the seller says only 12 are known to exist (what is the source?). We’re told this auto is in good condition, but the photos (one is date-coded in 2007) say otherwise. The odometer quit working at 60,000 miles (so is there another 100k in front of that figure?).
We’re told the engine is original, but is it in the car or somewhere else waiting to be rebuilt along with the rest of the DeSoto? To start work on this wayward Mopar, the seller says he/she “may” have some of the needed parts. But you should be prepared to source some spares that may no longer be available (though lots of Dodge and Chrysler stuff may work). And an extra zero was not added here to the asking price.
What a mess.
The seller also has it listed for auction on eBay with a $5,000 opening bid, unknown reserve and the same $26,000 bin. He did include a total of 12 pictures and a bit more thorough description where the jet potential buyers know they are the second owner.
Not sure what a restored version sells for, but you’d probably need it to be north of 6 figures to recoup purchase and restoration costs.
Steve R
It apparently is gone now.
It’s still listed on eBay and CL.
Steve R
Bottom of the line model, mostly Dodge, near the end of DeSoto production.
I am guessing the images are recent, simply the photographer doesn’t now how to set the date on the camera.
That’s what I was thinking, until I noticed that the photos have two different dates.
No Thank You, I’ll pass.
This poor DeSoto with Swept Wing Styling looks like it was swept away in a flood and washed to shore. I am a DeSoto aficionado, but unfortunately THIS one should sweep into Fire 🔥 and die a respectful death! 🥀 Still, I hope someone throws it a life-saver.
Rare does always mean valuable! Cool car! But condition and where are you going to find parts missing? At 26000 you would be 126000 in it before it’s done!
My Dad bought a 57 Desoto Firesweep four door in 1957. It was a great looking car, and as a sixteen-year-old car lover. I was elated that it had whitewall tires, p/s, p/b, radio, heater. Actually, it was very slighty used, as he bought it from a coworker who then bought a new Chrysler. It had V8 engine and a 727 automatic transmission and was the most powerful car I had ever driven at that time. I still have good memories of good times in that car and I guess that’s why I’m partial to 57 Desoto’s. It’s sad to see one in this condition, especially since it’s a convertible, and I hope someone with the means to restore it gets it.
$26k? BWAHAHAHAHA!
I believe that I know what the seller is thinking. In restored condition this DeSoto could flirt with the six figure range. But that’s dependent on a lot of ifs. Since the seller doesn’t offer much information; potential buyers (and I doubt that there will be many) are going to have to pay a visit to see this forlorn DeSoto. The buyer will also need a stout bankroll, vision and perseverance to complete the restoration. Assuming that someone like this actually exists; a flash of the cash might motivate the seller to part with their perceived unicorn at a considerable discount. In my view this is the only hope for this motley Mopar.
Unearthed in Egypt’s “Valley of the Kings”, and not at all well-mummified. Frightening. Upside down for eternity.
Yeah restored it might be worth a lot of money but as it sits, no way is it worth 26k . Real estate is the same way. Dumps with neglected repairs, hoarder trash in every room. Paint, floors needing refresh etc going for the same amount as if they were already remodeled and updated.
Also, as in real estate, location is everything
It’s sad that someone would this deteriorate to such a level and then expect to make a fortune on it.
recenty a similar 58 Firedome convertible in original black with red vinyl was listed for sale at $125K and it disappeared quick. Dont know if it sold or for what price. but the 57-58 Chrysler of any model are still pretty desirable even despite that generation is heading for the wings
Easy upgrade if you already have a nice 2 door hardtop
This is my first time commenting on this interesting group. I have a 57 Fireflite DeSoto in México City. I’m looking for a new engine and transmission, and I’m also looking for the rear lights. Does anyone know where or how I can get them?
Thank you for your attention!
How sad that someone left this care to rot away. There’s nothing left for the crusher at this point!
I am the seller of this car. There are only 12 of this model known to exist. The photos are dated 2007 because that’s the date I brought it to my home. After that it has been in my garage. The previous owner parked it because of rear end gear problem. I have just about everything needed to restore this car. I have been getting the parts out of my attic and taking pictures to post on my listing but I am 69 years old and it is a little difficult for me to do. it does have the original matching number 350 engine. It comes with extra fenders, windshield, all door in good condition. replacement vent window chrome frames. replacement tinted glass with good chrome frames. the original gas tank does not leak. have 3 dashboards great working radio. extra front and rear bumpers. all exterior trim. 6 NOS taillights . 3 steering wheels, There’s more but I haven’t gotten it out of the attic yet. I have been posting more pics on the Ebay listing. I tried to list it on bring a trailer but they wouldn’t let me, don’t know why
I am the seller of this car. There are only 12 of this model known to exist. The photos are dated 2007 because that’s the date I brought it to my home. After that date it has been in my garage. The previous owner parked it because of rear end gear problem in the 70s. For some reason he started taking it apart and then stopped. That’s the condition I got it. It comes with just about everything needed to restore this car. I have been getting the parts out of my attic and taking pictures to post on my listing but I am 69 years old and it is a little difficult for me to do. it does have the original matching number 350 engine. It comes with extra fenders, windshield, all door cards in good condition. a power seat that’s not original to it, replacement vent window chrome frames. replacement tinted glass with good chrome frames. the original gas tank does not leak. have 3 dashboards, great working radio. extra front and rear bumpers. all exterior trim. 6 NOS taillights . 3 steering wheels, There’s more but I haven’t gotten it out of the attic yet. I have been posting more pics on the Ebay listing. I tried to list it on bring a trailer but they wouldn’t let me, don’t know why. The 26k price is just the buy it now price. I have seen a 58 Firesweep conv complete rust bucket go for 10k. There are only 12 of these know to exist