1937 LaSalle Series 50 Convertible Sedan

The 1937 LaSalle models were introduced in November 1936. Total production for 1937 reached 32,005 units sold. The 37-50 LaSalle was available as a two- and four-door touring sedan, a convertible sedan, a convertible coupe, and a sport coupe. They all rested on a 124-inch wheelbase, except for the commercial chassis, which had a larger 160-inch wheelbase and measured 237 inches in length. The styling was courtesy of Harley Earl, done in the style of Art Deco designs. They had a single-piece bumper, dramatic pontoon fenders, and chevron trim integrated into the front fenders. There was a vee windshield and the bodies were constructed entirely of steel.

This Sport Coupe is finished in a dark rose metallic that has a hint of burnt tangerine. It has a trunk-back coupe, and a dark maroon velour interior with a mohair type of headliner. The odometer reads just 89,603 miles since new. The rear seating area features two jump seats that fold down from underneath the rear window and face toward each other, with the back being below each quarter window.

The engine is a 322 cubic-inch L-head unit rated at 125 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual transmission and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. The data rim plate displays style number 37-5027, body 4207, trim 81, and paint 27.

In 2009, this Deluxe Eight was offered for sale at the Houston Classic Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers and held in Seabrook, Texas. The lot was estimated to sell for $30,000 - $40,000 and offered without reserve. It was sold for $26,000, not including the 10-percent buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2009