This 1956 DeSoto Fireflite Convertible is a rare classic that spent most of its life in a favorable location. Therefore, it has avoided the rust problems that often plague these vehicles. It presents nicely, wearing most of its original paint, while the Hemi under the hood should provide very respectable performance. It is a turnkey proposition that would allow its new owner to make the most of the sunny weather now that summer has arrived. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Sam61 for spotting the Fireflite listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Auburn, Indiana. The seller set their price at $37,000 for a classic that is guaranteed to turn heads.
DeSoto launched the Fireflite in 1955 as the premium offering within that year’s model range. It remained in production until 1960, eventually receiving the flamboyant styling that was a hallmark of the Virgil Exner “forward look” philosophy as the decade progressed. Our feature Convertible left the factory in 1956, ordered by its first owner in Crimson and White with a contrasting Black soft-top. The seller indicates that this car features most of its original paint, and its condition is noteworthy if the claim is accurate. It retains a healthy shine, and any imperfections are too minor to reveal themselves in the supplied photos. The panels are straight, with the photos confirming that this classic is rust-free. The top fits as tight as a drum, and the glass is crystal clear. Rounding out the package is trim that looks pristine, and a set of classy wire wheels wrapped in whitewalls.
This DeSoto has no genuine weak points, although the deteriorating leather on the front seat may prompt some to consider a partial retrim to address that shortcoming. However, the seat is serviceable, and a slipcover would hide the problem from prying eyes if the new owner wished to preserve the car’s survivor status. Otherwise, this interior looks extremely nice. There is no appreciable carpet wear, the bright pieces shine nicely, the dash and wheel look excellent, and there are no visible aftermarket additions. As befits a range-topping model from this era, the buyer receives a dash-mounted clock and a push-button radio.
The 1956 Fireflite Convertible only offered buyers a single engine, but it wasn’t a bad one. The 330ci Hemi produced 255hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque according to that year’s Sales Brochure. Shifting duties fall to a Powerflite automatic transmission, while power steering lightens the driver’s load. The Fireflite Convertible could never be described as light, tipping the scales beyond 4,300 lbs. However, the Hemi was up to the task of providing decent performance, allowing the Convertible to cope with heavy traffic and hold its own on the open road. The good news for potential buyers is that this DeSoto is a turnkey proposition. The seller confirms that it runs and drives well, allowing the buyer to make the most of summer from behind the wheel of this classic.
DeSoto produced 30,521 examples of the 1956 Fireflite across all body styles, but only 1,485 buyers paid the premium to drive away in a Convertible. Like many vehicles from this era, they were treated as disposable items, quickly discarded when the “latest and greatest” landed on the showroom floor. How many survive today is unknown, although you can be almost guaranteed that you won’t often see one on your daily travels. The seller’s price looks quite realistic against recent successful sales when you consider the scope of the work required to lift its presentation. I hope that someone grabs this classic, addresses its minor shortcomings, and continues to enjoy it as its creators intended. Are you up for that challenge?
OMG! Another Delightful, Delovely DeSoto! So much to say, but getting ready for church. Yes CHURCH! 😲 Groucho didn’t send me, but I’ll be back later to babble on about the merits of this and all DeSotos.
Now this is nice. Many cars on this site are interesting from the POV of a gear head but this one speaks to me. It says put the top down and drive me. One thing though, Auburn Indiana ids a favorable environment for protecting a car?
Can’t speak to the specifics of the car, but Auburn has at least one great car museum. Maybe more? At least a few within a close distance if my aging pea brain is still functioning
A purrrfect Amerian mid-century collector car
Same year as me and looks a whole lot better.
Of course. You’re not a convertible!
As a Chrysler kid, I think that this 56 Desoto is a much prettier can than the 56 Chrysler. Hope it’s rust-free. I have some in progress pictures of a guy who did a complete restoration on 56 New Yorker convertible and it was a real bear to do. Very complicated metal structure (sort of like an E-type’s tub but larger and more complicated).
As an avowed DeSoto aficionado, this would be the crowning glory of my garage. Alas, current funding presents a bit of a sticky wicket. But what a gorgeous automobile. I’ll bet a lot of DeSoto Club members are salivating over this. GLWTS.
It doesn’t say if it runs and drives but that’s not insurmountable. The top is clearly a replacement, that’s just wear and tear as far as I’m concerned. I don’t particularly care for the wire wheels. I’d sell them go for steel wheels and appropriate wheel covers, and use the profit to fix the leather. My favorite year was the 56 with the mesh grille, and a convertible to top it! If I had the money and space I’d jump at it.
The information under the photo of the engine states that it runs and drives well!
Wow. So glad previous owners took care of it. This will be gone soon.
Need to hit lotto! Wow, this is gorgeous. What an incredible looking car.
Usually I don’t like Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels but they look so right on this beauty! Get out your Doris Day and Patti Page records!
Hi Kim
The ad States that the car has a 331 Hemi engine that runs great, has real wire wheels, runs and drives great,
Nice classic in very good condition. — I always liked the DeSoto dashes – clean and well appointed. Someone is going to really enjoy this beauty.
Yes! The 56 dash was essentially the same as 55. I’ve always felt that one was one of the most beautiful ever. The 61 DeSoto dash with see through speedometer (shared with 61 Dodge) was amazing.
Didn’t the Chryslers have a remarkable space age dash in the late 50s too?
A mere 37 grand. First year push button transmission selector. Beautiful car. Love the color combinations. Grill layout is cool as with the rear taillight setup. Someone best jump on this soon.
God Bless America
1955 had 291..1956 had 330..1957 had 341 all Hemis. I have a 1955 Desoto that bought in 1993 and still drive. If you have ever had an old Hemi they have a very unique feel and sound.
FYI There was a National DeSoto Club. I was a member years ago. I believe it’s still around. It used to have ads for DeSoto and parts.