Finned Wonder: 1960 DeSoto Fireflite

Most automakers saw a big decline in sales in 1958 due to an economic recession. But DeSoto saw demand fall by 61%, and it dropped another 8% in 1959 when other car builders saw a rebound starting. So, by 1960, the handwriting had to be on the wall at Chrysler. And, sure enough, early into the 1961 model year, the DeSoto was gone after 33 seasons. The seller has a beautiful 1960 Fireflite 2-door hardtop, one of just 3,984 to leave the assembly line. It’s an older restoration that’s held up well, though an engine swap is likely. Located in Wagener, South Carolina, this finned wonder from Chrysler is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $30,000.

For the 1960 model year, DeSoto scaled back to just two models, the Fireflite and the Adventurer. Total sales of just over 26,000 units favored the former by a small margin of 55/45. Whichever nameplate you chose, the cars were well-equipped for their day, and this one has power steering, power brakes, a push-button automatic transmission, and swiveling front seats. The car was restored some time ago but looks as fresh as a daisy today.

This DeSoto has changed hands at least three times, but each owner seems to have been respectful of it. The mileage isn’t indicated (a placeholder is used), and we’re told the upholstery is new. The body lines are clean (dig those wild fins!), the white paint is very nice, and there’s no rust anywhere (Chrysler switched to unibody in 1960).

We’re told the 440-cubic-inch V8 has been freshly rebuilt. But it must be from 1965 or later, as DeSoto used 361s and 383s in 1960 when this car was assembled. So, if numbers matching is a must-have for you, this DeSoto may not suit your tastes. Be careful backing one of these cars up as the tailfins could “put your eye out”! Our thanks go to “PRA4SNW” for the vintage tip.