Dusty Orange Dream: A 1957 De Soto’s Restored Mid-Century Marvel This 1957 De Soto Firesweep Sportsman Hardtop, a vehicle featured in Hemmings Classic Car magazine, is a testament to the bold design and innovative engineering of the late 1950s. Restored to a high standard, this De Soto, with its Dusty Orange and white two-tone exterior and matching interior, captures the essence of the “Forward Look” era. Under the hood, the stated-original 325-cu.in. “poly” V8 engine, paired with an early TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, delivers smooth and reliable performance. This Sportsman has been thoughtfully updated with front disc brakes, modern air conditioning, and a concealed modern radio, enhancing its drivability and comfort. The 325 “poly” V8, with its polyspherical cylinder heads and 245 horsepower rating, provides a distinctive and enjoyable driving experience, emblematic of Chrysler Corporation’s engineering prowess.
Design Details: Dusty Orange Elegance and Iconic 1950s Styling The De Soto Firesweep Sportsman’s Dusty Orange and white two-tone exterior, a factory combination, showcases the car’s iconic 1950s design. The chrome accents and stainless-steel trim, all redone during the restoration, enhance the car’s luxurious aesthetic. The body is reported to be free of rust and damage, with the paint in “very good condition.” The chrome wire wheels and whitewall radial tires complete the car’s period-correct look. The design, from its sweeping lines to its distinctive fins, reflects the bold and innovative styling that defined the era.
Interior Comfort: Matching Vinyl Luxury and Modern Amenities Inside, the restored Dusty Orange and white vinyl interior maintains the car’s cohesive aesthetic. The seat covers and door panels show only light wear, reflecting the quality of the restoration. The previous owner chromed the upper door trim, adding a custom touch. Modern air conditioning, integrated through vintage-appearing vents, ensures a comfortable cabin environment. A modern radio is concealed in the glove box, preserving the original dashboard’s appearance. The interior’s design and materials reflect a blend of classic styling and modern comfort, creating an enjoyable driving experience.
Performance and Power: 325 V8 Smoothness and Upgraded Reliability The stated-original 325-cu.in. “poly” V8 engine, with its two-barrel carburetor and 245 horsepower rating, delivers smooth and reliable performance. The TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, operated by dash-mounted push-button controls, provides effortless gear changes. The front disc brake upgrade enhances stopping power, while the rebuilt master cylinder ensures reliable braking performance. The addition of an electric fan improves engine cooling. The car’s mechanical upgrades and restoration ensure a “runs and drives fantastically” experience, as noted by the owner in Hemmings Classic Car magazine.
Summary:
- 1957 De Soto Firesweep Sportsman Hardtop.
- 325-cu.in. “poly” V8 engine with two-barrel carburetor.
- TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission.
- Dusty Orange and white two-tone exterior.
- Matching Dusty Orange and white vinyl interior.
- Front disc brake upgrade, modern air conditioning.
- Modern radio in glove box, original radio in dash.
- Chrome wire wheels, whitewall radial tires.
- Featured in Hemmings Classic Car magazine.
- Restored condition, clean Arizona title.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and condition are based on available information. Potential buyers should conduct their own inspection and verification.
Source: hemmings.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
