Few auto shows these days go without a pimped-out classic ‘Vette or two, but the downside of popularity is that it gets boring after a while. Those in the market for a more exotic retro car should rather consider something like this DeSoto Firesweep Sportsman Coupe.
Produced in 1957 by Chrysler’s now-defunct DeSoto division, it was considered low-end, but still packed a robust twin-carb V8 sending 350 PS (345 hp / 257 kW) to the wheels through a three-speed AT. Aside from the coupe, the model range included a sedan and a wagon – check out the video for a closer look at another Firesweep.
The example shown in the gallery below was restored to peak condition by Bob Schmidt. He resprayed the body in Dust Orange and black with chrome and gold-tinted accents throughout. The interior received a fresh vinyl-and-fabric makeover in the same color scheme as the body.
The restomod has 19 km (12 miles) on the odometer post-restoration and is currently up for grabs at Broad Arrow’s Monterey auction with the projected selling price between $75–100 grand.