Ghost Buster: ’55 DeSoto Firedome Wagon

The Keller years at Chrysler ended in 1955 with the advent of stylish cars like the 1955 DeSoto Firedome station wagon. K.T. Keller, corporate president since 1935, liked conservative styling with high rooflines that allowed passengers to keep their hats on. But America wanted sleek, stylish cars. Chrysler’s new chief of design, Virgil Exner, really shook things up. His styling was dramatic by 1950s standards. In 1955, Virgil introduced new styling for all Chrysler divisions. Today’s Firedome wagon comes from Dan Aykroyd’s personal collection. It appears to be a rare early car because it has Chrysler style rear tailights instead of the typical DeSoto multi-lamp array. What a great looking wagon. It is finished in black over red with white vinyl interior. All DeSotos were powered by the same 291cid hemi engine producing 185hp coupled to a 2 speed automatic or 3-speed manual. This one is an automatic with power steering and brakes. The seller tells us it is roadworthy right off the enclosed trailer in front of your home. The asking price is $36,500. Maybe a little bump because of the celebrity ownership. Click here for the listing.