USA vs USA — 1956 vs 1957
| Adventurer Convertible | Adventurer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 345 hp | 345 hp |
| Torque | 410 lb-ft | 425 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,899 cc | 5,917 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 7.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 4,000 lbs | 4,100 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,124 mm | 3,200 mm |
| Length | 5,385 mm | 5,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 687 | 1,650 |
| Original MSRP | $4,369 | $3,997 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $125,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
The 1957 DeSoto Adventurer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The 1956 DeSoto Adventurer Convertible counters with greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The DeSoto Adventurer lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1956 DeSoto Adventurer Convertible with the 1957 DeSoto Adventurer reveals how DeSoto refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1956 DeSoto Adventurer Convertible producing 345 hp and the 1957 DeSoto Adventurer delivering 345 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 DeSoto Adventurer edges ahead at 7.7 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.