Open-Air Flamboyance.

Byline: JOHN F. KATZ

1955 marked the turning point for DeSoto, from Chrysler's most conservative division to its most flamboyant.

Arguably, the transition began in 1952, when DeSoto released its own version of the 331-cid Chrysler hemi-head V8, displacing 276 cubic inches. One magazine road test called the new DeSoto Hemi "an engine 10 years ahead of the rest of the car.'' That same year Chrysler Corp. slipped back into third place in sales, behind a newly revitalized Ford. By early 1953, the company had launch-ed a crash program to develop all-new styling for 1955.

Designed by Virgil Exner, the new "Forward Look'' bodies for DeSoto, Chrysler and Imperial were long and low, and round in cross-section, with a strong horizontal ridge that streaked back from the headlights, and a sexy kick-up over the rear wheels. The DeSoto derived its identity chiefly from its traditional toothsome grille (beloved by hot rodders and cartoonists alike), and from its optional "Colorsweep'' trim-a contrasting patch of paintwork around the rear wheel that narrowed to a spear across the doors and front fenders.

Also for '55, DeSoto retired its standard side-valve six and made a 291-cid Hemi standard across the line. Firedome models had two-barrel carbs and a single exhaust, for 185 hp at 4400 rpm; upmarket Fireflites rated 200 ponies with a four-barrel and dual exhausts.

The '55 Firedome convertible you see here sports optional rocker-panel moldings as well as Colorsweep trim panels. A Boston man originally bought the convertible for his girlfriend, who drove it until 1968 then put it in storage until 1996. Current owner Paul Gebauer received the car as a gift from his wife a couple of years later. Gebauer believes the 50,100 miles showing on the odometer on the day of our drive is accurate. The convertible top itself has been replaced, but the rest of the car-paint, interior, mechanical components-is original. That an East ...