For Sale: 1955 DeSoto Firedome in Mesa, Arizona

This 1955 DeSoto Firedome S22 Station Wagon has a fresh look inside and out. It's part of a more recent and comprehensive restoration completed in 2022, and it even included the exclusive Hemi V8 used this year. While they took the time to keep this two-tone grocery-getter looking vintage, upgrades like air conditioning and an overdrive transmission take this cool classic and make it a true all-around driver.

This kind of DeSoto has a legendary look. Virgil Exner brought in a sweeping design that looked fast standing still. The style is in the touch of kick-up in the rear doors, the way the rounded fender tops seemed to echo into the sides, and the smooth flow into a rear that signals the beginning of the tailfin era. It's quite a unique-looking car, especially because with only about 1800 wagons produced in 1956, we rarely see them today. That makes it a great candidate for a detailed restoration. The red and black are a great 1950s color combo, but the clearcoat glow gives this one a nice modern distinction. And this DeSoto knew how to separate the two colors with a trim line above the doors that encircles the car. And speaking of the brightwork, the front end is what really makes this one so memorable. The premium style is not just in the way the sheet metal contours to the grille, but you also have beautiful chrome details, like a small hood scoop, dimpled headlight bezels, and the discoverer hood ornament. It's all part of a solid investment in shine. It all looks quite complete, right down to the wheel covers. In fact, the only modern cruiser update you may spot is the set of polished dual exhaust tips.

The interior continues the fresh but vintage style. We especially like the seats with black and white two-tone with a distinct cloth pattern insert, and the door panels were done to match. A taut headliner, good carpeting, and a glossy dash complete an inviting style. Even the courtesy lights work in this detailed classic. Plus, the two-piece tailgate is great for ballgames of just giving you plenty of access to all that cargo room. It's all correctly vintage right down to the badge on the dual-spoke steering wheel. But as you get into the driver's seat, you start to see some well-integrated upgrades. It has a better cruiser attitude with a moveable cup holder console and under-dash unit for cold-blowing air conditioning

One of the most alluring parts of a 1950s DeSoto is what's under the hood. That's why this one makes sure to show it off with a very clean and correct style. The 291 cubic-inch FireDome V8 is a Hemi motor, and since the displacement is exclusive to 1955, there are thoughts (but unconfirmed) about originality. The clean presentation does a good job of showcasing the details like the polished valve covers with DeSoto callouts. Plus, it's also easy to start spotting some nice power upgrades from the four-barrel carburetor, updated intakes, and shorty headers feeding the dual exhaust. The solid investment in this V8 means it fires up readily and loves to hit the road. And it's easier to enjoy with features like the power brakes, modern touring tires, and an upgraded 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.

The sale comes complete with build receipts and maintenance records. This doesn't drive like a full restomod. If you want that there are some easy additions, like four-wheel disc brakes, new springs, or put a modern stereo in the glovebox. Instead, we love how this remains cheerfully vintage and celebrates the classic car feel with just the right pieces to make a weekend trip more enjoyable. It's versatile, vintage, rare, and absolutely irresistible. Call today!!!