1938 LaSalle 50 Series Opera Coupe
CCCA Classic, 57k Miles, Sympathetic Restoration, CA and AZ Car$28,000
Harry's Thoughts
THE ESSENTIALS
This is a rare 1938 LaSalle 50 Series Two Passenger Coupe that is an excellent driving car that has been restored as needed to produce a wonderful touring car. Being a California and Arizona car, it remains rust free and well preserved. But the magic of this LaSalle is in the driving experience. This is likely the fastest CCCA Full Classic that we recall driving. While there remain areas for future improvement (such as replacing the original discolored glass), this is a car that will provide instant enjoyment.
This was purchased new in Los Angeles, California and enjoyed two long time owners. This Two-Passenger Coupe is one of only 2,711 produced in 1938 and is a rare sight to see today. By 2006, the LaSalle was acquired by Mr. Bob Walker from its last owner in Avondale, AZ. Bob had a similar LaSalle while he was in high school in Idaho Falls, Idaho and had to sell it to attend college out of state. He regretted selling his beloved LaSalle for the next 40 years. Since 2006, Mr. Walker improved the car and kept it very original and correct. He has recently passed, and we are selling it on behalf of the estate.
The livery is presented in Fairhaven Blue (Paint Code 11) and was repainted years ago in lacquer. There are areas of the paint where there is the normal lacquer cracking and a few small areas where the paint has peeled away. Most of the chrome is original and has light pitting. The bumpers and door handles have been re-chromed and look nice. We love the long front end devoid of side mounted tires. This makes the front end appear much longer and gives it a very sexy profile. The split windshield also gives it a fast look. Overall, the exterior is in tour quality condition enabling it to be shown at local car shows.
The interior is a correct gray Ribbed Cloth (Trim Code 33) and is very correct in its appearance and workmanship. The door panels are gray wool broadcloth. Behind the front seats are two jump seats, which would normally be referred to as an Opera Coupe. The carpet is a gray nylon that is a terrific color match to the upholstery. There is a well installed turn signal lever under the dash that is very well placed for ease of use. Overall, the interior presents well and has been redone over the years to appear correct.
The magic of this 1938 LaSalle is under the hood. The correct 322 CID V8 has excellent power and is pared to the three-speed manual transmission. The engine and engine compartment are well detailed and look sharp. The chassis has been very well cleaned and painted. The chassis has been well maintained with excellent brakes, suspension and steering. The joy of this LaSalle is driving it. The engine revs freely and has excellent power. We assume that the Two Passenger Coupe is likely one of the lightest bodies, which makes the performance that much more impressive. It is a joy to drive, and to drive fast. It is nimble and maneuverable, not at all CCCA Classic in its performance!
The wiring harness, gas tank, shocks and bushings have all recently been replaced. Mechanically, this LaSalle is ready to be toured in and enjoyed. In the trunk is the spare wheel, jack and wheel wrench. The original trunk mat is present and in wonderful original condition. This LaSalle comes complete with a huge collection of manuals, spare parts and accessories as well as file history.
For more information and details, please call or text or Harry Clark at +1.602.245.7200 or email us at sales@classicpromenade.com. This Coupe is available for viewing and inspection at our Phoenix showroom. We are pleased to offer FaceTime or WhatsApp live video inspections and we help coordinate shipping worldwide. We also have financing partners if you are interested in financing.
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