Did you know the Fireflite once to be DeSoto famous models?

Unique ONES - Indeed, discussing the figure of a beautiful unique car is fun and will never end. And this gorgeous DeSoto Fireflite was introduced in 1955, and was the first of two vehicle models that made the DeSoto name famous. The second model was the DeSoto Adventurer, which was introduced a year later in 1956.

The DeSoto Fireflite featured with a two-tone color touches, by using a combination of striking color lines such as white, black or red, to enhance the impression of a high-speed car. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

For your info, DeSoto is a brand created by Walter Chrysler in 1928, and those two models above are part of the 'Model of the Future' plans had arranged by Chrysler's famous designer, Virgil Exner. One of the focuses of the design made by the maestro is the car's rear fins, which makes the Fireflite and Adventurer look different.

The DeSoto Fireflite's interior offered bench seating that could accommodate six passengers. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Besides that, Exner also gave the Fireflite a two-tone color touches, by using a combination of striking color lines such as white, black or red, to enhance the impression of a high-speed car. Seem like it doesn't to be nonsense, because the Fireflite is also supported by the use of a V8 engine which increases vehicle performance and speed. Apart from that, the Fireflite also has an automatic transmission called Powerflite, which is operated by the Flite-Control lever located on the dashboard.

The DeSoto Fireflite is powered by a Hemi V8 engine producing 160 hp (120 kW) and had a top speed of 100 mph (160 kph). (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

In addition, at the time DeSoto Fireflite also received publicity through a radio show hosted by Groucho Marx, which was later adapted to television show titled 'You Bet Your Life.' During the shows, in certain segments the presenter would peek behind the DeSoto logo and slowly appear saying, "Friends….go to the DeSoto-Plymouth dealership tomorrow. When you get there, tell them: Groucho sent you." At that time, the Fireflite was sold on the market at a price of $3,544 or around Rp. 35 million.

The DeSoto Fireflite has one of the focuses of the design made by the maestro is the car's rear fins. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Such publicity at the radio and TV shows turned out to be enough to significantly boost DeSoto's sales. As the resulthe Fireflite alone sold over 37,000 units in 1955, and 31,000 units were sold in 1956 when the engine power was increased. Additionally, in 1956 there's a gold and white Fireflite convertible became the company's official racing car at the Indianapolis 500. After that the DeSoto Fireflite was replaced by the DeSoto Adventurer model in 1957.

Unfortunately, this American car brand could not last much longer in the world automotive scene, because it was unable to compete. And DeSoto was finally officially closed by Chrysler Corporation on November 30, 1960, with previous sales of 2 million units since its founding in 1928. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | ]

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