1931 LaSalle Model 345A Dual Windshield Touring

Since many of Buick's affluent customers were wanting more and usually finding it at other marques (such as Packard), GM decided to create a new line of vehicles that could cater to their needs. It was positioned between Buick and Cadillac and aimed at recapturing a large portion of the market that could not yet afford a Cadillac, but wanted something more than what Buick had to offer.

The LaSalle was powered by a V-8 engine that followed Cadillac tradition, but lacked the fork-and-blade connecting rods. It was less expensive to build and was made simpler and less complex that its Cadillac cousin. The engine worked so well that it was later enlarged and used for the 1928 Cadillac.

The LaSalle brand was formally introduced on March 5th, 1927, and priced at $2,685. The Buicks sold for around $1,925, while bottom-end Cadillacs went for $3,195. The LaSalle was exactly $100 higher than the equivalent Fifth Series Packard. The engine offered 75 horsepower and was capable of 70 mph.

Two-tone color combinations were a novelty at this time, and the LaSalles created a sensation by wearing them. The hoods and cowls were finished in darker hues than the rest of the body, and 'cheat' lines and belt molding effects accentuated the car's compactness.

The 1928 models remained mostly unchanged from the previous year. The 12 broad hood louvers were replaced with 28 narrow louvers. The engine received a boost in power, now up to 80.

The 345A was introduced in 1931, and it was basically a 'lower' version of a Cadillac. Both rode on a 134-inch wheelbase and both were powered by the 353.3 cubic-inch V8. The main differences were the brand name and the trim.

This car has been in the same ownership for the last 55 years. In 2008 it was brought to auction, the first time in over half a century. It was recently treated to a cosmetic restoration and finished in Carnival Red with Formal Black accents on the exterior. There are dual sidemounts with rear-facing mirrors and fender-mounted driving lights. In the rear is an accessory luggage rack. There are wire wheels, a black interior, and leather seat surfaces.

In 2008, this Chrysler CG Imperial was offered for sale at the Hilton Head Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers. It had an estimated value of $160,000 - $180,000. As the gavel fell for the third and final time, the lot had been sold for a high bid of $137,500, including the buyer's premium.