DeSoto Fireflite (1955)

Being part of Chrysler, DeSoto got the technology from the parent company as soon as it was available. Hence, as early as the Fireflite had received the Hemi engine, which made it an incredible performer. A sign of how these new engines were is the fact that this customized version still uses its original 'Firedome' powerplant. Despite its near 2-ton weight, it can cover the quarter-mile in 16 seconds, helped by a custom performance exhaust. However, its real intention is as a cruiser, and for that reason it has lowered coils on the independent double wishbone front end and lowering blocks at the rear, which put the axle close to the body. While externally the car features little in the way of bodywork - aside from the obvious two-tone bright paint and pinstriping - inside it's been treated to a full tuck 'n' roll re-trim, which is indicative of 1950s customs.

DeSoto Fireflite (1955) Specifications