1930 LaSalle Model 340 Five Passenger Phaeton

The LaSalle automobile, created in 1927, holds a special place in history as it is considered to be the first American car to have been styled from concept to reality. They were smaller and lighter than the Cadillac and built on a similar chassis. There were eleven standard body styles to select from, all built by Fisher and four custom Fleetwood models. They offered Cadillac-level quality at nearly $1,000 savings.

For 1930, Fleetwood offered six bodies, of which the most expensive was the $3,995 five-passenger All-Weather Phaeton (convertible sedan). This example was ordered through the Cincinnati Cadillac dealer and delivered to its first owner, J.M. Wright, on January 28th, 1930. Dean Buchanan, a longtime owner of the vehicle, discovered it in a classified ad in the Detroit News in the mid-1970s. Stored in a shed for many years, it had been owned by a railroad worker who lacked the means to restore it.

Mr. Buchanan began a nearly 15-year restoration beginning in the mid-1980s. Upon completion, it was awarded first place at the 2002 Bay Harbor Concours, followed by a first at Meadow Brook. It completed the summer with a First in Class at the Cadillac LaSalle Club national meet in Dearborn.

The Series 340 is powered by a 340 cubic-inch L-head V8 engine offering 90 horsepower and mated to a three-speed manual transmission. It is painted with correct Bay Tree panels and Bonaventure Green fenders and body moldings. The interior features tan upholstery and a tan canvas top.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Amelia Island sale presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $90,000 - $120,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $66,000 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2012