1928 LaSalle Model 303 Coupe

The LaSalle, a new 'companion manufacturer' to Cadillac, was introduced in March 1927. They were built to similar quality and prestige as the Cadillac but were smaller and lighter, powered by a scaled-down L-head V8 engine, and offered at a lower price. The design was by a newly recruited individual named Harley Earl, who came from California to work in Detroit. Using inspiration from Hispano-Suiza, Earl penned a styling tour de force with a classic shape. The 1927 LaSalle has the distinction of being considered the first American car to have been styled from concept to reality. Up to this point in history, the cars had been designed by 'body engineers.'

This particular LaSalle Series 303 Five-Passenger Coupe by Fisher was shipped from the factory on April 9th, 1928, to the dealer at Bay City, Michigan. Much of its history has been unrecorded. In 1989 it was given a restoration by Al-Co Restorations in Magnolia, Texas which included a full engine rebuild with new pistons, bearings, and balancing. The car became part of the Merrick Auto Museum collection in 1996. Prior owners include Larry Digny of Princeton, Massachusetts.

The car is finished in maroon with black fenders, black body moldings, and light grey at the belt molding and around the windows. The upholstery is grey pleated cloth, and there are bud vases in the rear.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2020