What engines were available in the 1957 Desoto?
The 1957 DeSoto was a standout model in the golden age of American automotive design, known for its bold styling, innovative features, and powerful engine options. As a proud member of Chrysler's lineup, DeSoto offered a range of engines that catered to both performance enthusiasts and everyday drivers. In this article, we’ll explore the engine options that made the 1957 DeSoto a memorable classic.
Overview of the 1957 DeSoto
The 1957 DeSoto was part of Chrysler's "Forward Look" design era, characterized by dramatic tailfins, sleek lines, and futuristic styling. It was available in several models, including the Fireflite, Firedome, and the high-performance Adventurer. Each model offered unique features and engine options to suit different customer preferences.
Engine Options in the 1957 DeSoto
The 1957 DeSoto came with a variety of engine choices, reflecting the growing demand for power and performance in the 1950s. Here are the engines that were available:
- Firedome V8: The Firedome models were equipped with a 341-cubic-inch HEMI V8 engine, producing approximately 270 horsepower. This engine was known for its smooth performance and reliability.
- Fireflite V8: The Fireflite models featured a 341-cubic-inch HEMI V8 as well, but with a higher output of around 295 horsepower. This engine provided a balance of power and refinement, making it a popular choice.
- Adventurer V8: The Adventurer, DeSoto's high-performance model, boasted a 345-cubic-inch HEMI V8 engine. This powerhouse delivered an impressive 345 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines of its time.
Innovative Features of the 1957 DeSoto Engines
DeSoto's engines in 1957 were not just about raw power; they also incorporated innovative features that enhanced performance and reliability. Some of these features included:
- HEMI Design: The hemispherical combustion chamber design improved airflow and combustion efficiency, resulting in better performance and fuel economy.
- Push-Button Transmission: Paired with these engines was Chrysler's push-button TorqueFlite automatic transmission, which offered smooth and effortless gear changes.
- Dual Quad Carburetors: The Adventurer's engine featured dual four-barrel carburetors, further boosting its performance capabilities.
Legacy of the 1957 DeSoto
The 1957 DeSoto remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts, thanks in large part to its powerful and innovative engines. Whether you were cruising in a Firedome, enjoying the luxury of a Fireflite, or tearing up the road in an Adventurer, the 1957 DeSoto offered an unforgettable driving experience. Its engines were a testament to the engineering excellence of the era and continue to be celebrated by collectors and historians alike.
If you’re lucky enough to own or restore a 1957 DeSoto, maintaining its engine is key to preserving its legacy. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in classic car maintenance and repair, ensuring that your vintage beauty runs as smoothly as it did back in the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most expensive American car in 1957?
The Continental Mark II was also one of the most expensive and exclusive cars of its day, and boasted an enviable list of famous owners that included Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor. The Mark II was built for only two model years, making this 1957 example from the last year of production.
What are the specs of the DeSoto engine?
The DeSoto Firesweep polyhead V8s were introduced with a bore and stroke of 3.6875 in (94 mm) X 3.800 in (97 mm). for 325 cid. The two barrel V8 was rated at 240 hp (179 kW) while the four barrel version produced 260 hp (194 kW). The 330 cid hemi engine was replaced by a hemi which was 341 cid (5.6L) .
How much is a 1957 DeSoto worth?
The value of a 1957 DeSoto Adventurer can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $84,550 for a 1957 DeSoto Adventurer in good condition with average spec.
What models are in the 1957 DeSoto?
To explain where today's featured 1957 DeSoto Firedome Sportsman coupe fits within the 1957 DeSoto model hierarchy, it's important to understand that by 1957 the model lineup had expanded from 1956's two models—the Firedome and Fireflite—to four—the Firesweep, Firedome, Fireflite, and Adventurer.
Why was the DeSoto discontinued?
Recession. The 1958 recession seriously affected demand for mid-priced automobile makes. DeSoto sales were particularly affected, and sales failed to recover in 1959 and 1960. With falling sales, the 1959 and 1960 models were very similar to the concurrent Chryslers.
What was the original Hemi engine?
FirePower
First Generation Hemi (1951-1958)
Hemi knowledge gained during and post-WWII hit the street in 1951 with the production of Chrysler's first overhead-valve V-8, replacing the flat head (which had its valves in the cylinder block). The cast-iron, 331ci “FirePower” engine was rated at 180 hp.
Did DeSoto cars have hemi engines?
Desoto ran with the 276 Firedome Hemi V8 from 1952 to 1954, then upped the ante to 291 cubes in 1955, then 330, in 1956, 341 in 1957 (and the high performance Adventurer for 1956) and the ultimate iteration of the DeSoto Hemi, the 345 cube Firedome V8 for the 1957 Adventurer.
What engines were available in a 1957 DeSoto?
In 1957, the DeSoto Firesweep was powered by the Dodge "Poly" 325 V8 with a 2bbl Stromberg down draft carburetor. The 325 was basically a detuned polyspherical combustion chambered version of the Dodge "Red Ram" 325 Hemi. With the optional power-pack four-barrel V8, the 1957 Firesweep produced 260 hp at 4400 rpm.
What is the rarest DeSoto car?
1958 DeSoto FireMite
The 1958 DeSoto FireMite was a 3/8ths scale 1958 DeSoto Fireflite officially made by Chrysler. This isn't your normal peddle car either, powered by a Briggs 6B 4 stroke engine which gave the firemite an adrenaline pumping 2 horsepower!
Why did DeSoto fail?
DeSoto's failure to adjust to changing market trends, evidenced by its lack of a new compact car model in 1960 as GM, Ford and DeSoto's siblings Dodge and Plymouth had done, also hastened its demise.
