Now this is something you don’t see every day! While you are likely to see a Tri-Five or a ’55 Ford on the street, you aren’t likely to see a DeSoto Sportsman. While they produced a fair number of these cars, they weren’t ever produced in the same numbers as the Fords and Chevys they competed with. Reader Bernie W found this Sportsman in a barn and had to use a forklift to move it around, but it looks like its a decent project. There’s already been some work done, including rebuilding the engine and transmission. There’s still a lot left to be done, but how cool would this be to finish? You can find it in Greenwood, Delaware and you can contact Bernie via the form below!
Asking Price: $11,500
Location: Greenwood, Deleware
Mileage: 47,000
Title Status: Clean
VIN: 55216301
Seller’s Description: Excellent barn find that is rust free!
Body Condition: The frame has been sandblasted and painted.
Mechanical Condition: Motor and transmission have been rebuilt.
With the mechanical systems already sorted, we would be tempted to leave it looking a bit rough on the outside, but completely redo the interior so that it’s a comfortable driver. That way we could get to enjoying it right away. Once the snow starts to fall, we would start prepping the exterior for paint and try to get it painted before spring hits! That’s just us, but what would you do with this Sportsman? And make sure to contact Bernie via the form below to get more info.
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Why no mention of engine or transmission?
Saying the engine was rebuilt doesn’t mean it has had the mechanicals sorted.
If you rebuild an engine and then let it sit, it will have a lot of problems.
The buyer had better ask how long the rebuilt engine was run before it was left to sit.
I am speaking from experience.
A gentle suggestion for Bernie and other sellers — more (and better) photos, please.
At first glance, I thought it was a Studebaker.
My Father had a 1955 Desoto Firedome Sportsman. Went fast, stopped poorly. Convert to front discs, maybe repalce transmiaaion with a 3 speed torqueflight, and it would be a nice driver.
Doesn’t anybody know what a hose it’s before posting pictures?!
Better hope all the chrome is there because it’ll be expensive if u can find it.
3 pics, no wash, too pricey, nice car when done but I feel sorry for anyone who takes this on.
Not dropping $11.5k on any car that is photographed on a forklift. :) Or not washed. Or missing its drivetrain. Or from someone who cannot spell the state of Delaware. Nope.