DeSoto introduced the 'Firedome' name in 1952 when the 4.5-litre Chrysler Hemi V8 was given to the DeSoto. For 1955 the Firedome became the entry level DeSoto with the Fireflite above it, and in 1957 the Firesweep introduced bumped the Firedome up to mid-range. 1955 and 1956 DeSotos were built on a 126-inch wheelbase and were styled with the new Chrysler 'Forward Look'. Standard power was an enlarged 5,414cc (330) Hemi V8. Body styles were a 4-door sedan and there were two hardtops, the Seville and the Sportsman; both of these hardtops were offered in 2-door or 4-door versions. There was also a Station Wagon
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Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan - badge on bootlid
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Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan - badge on front wing
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Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan. The 'Firedome' V8 engine (actually the Chrysler Hemi) had created the DeSoto Firedome when Chrysler gave its mid brand the new 4.5-litre V8, this was enlarged to 5.4-litre for 1956
Chrysler Windsor 1956 4-door sedan front
Click here to go to an album on: Chrysler Windsor 1956 4-door sedan. Modest rear wings were added in 1956 and new front grilles. The Windsor was Chrysler's entry level model.
Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan front
Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan. Built on a 126-inch chassis with a Chrysler Hemi V8 under the bonnet
Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan rear
Desoto Firedome 1956 4-door sedan. For 1956 the Firedome was a mid-range model with the Fireflite below and the Adventurer above. All shared the 126-inch wheelbase.
