357 hp, 350 cu. in. digital fuel-injected tunnel ram ZZ4 V-8 engine, three-speed Turbo-HydraMatic 400 automatic transmission, front independent coil and rear Super-Slide leaf spring suspension, with front hydraulic disc and rear hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 120"

• Introduced at the 1939 World’s Fair in New York

• Beautiful LaSalle styling with modern power and performance

• Mild custom with a complete and extensive list of modifications

A hallmark year for LaSalle design came in 1939 with the entire line up being exhibited at the World’s Fair in New York. Design was guided by Harley Earl himself, while the front end, and particularly the grille, are said to have been influenced by renowned designer Raymond Loewy. The uniquely tall and slender grille with closely set headlight enclosures and sweeping fenders are a highpoint in elegant automobile design—a hallmark of the era.

“Lucille” is a black cherry and black mild custom 1939 LaSalle coupe. To retain the rich classic lines of this “Opera Coupe,” body modifications were minimal, including shaved door handles, side spears, recessed license plate and a power antenna. The body still carries the original Body by Fisher emblem on the right side. Under the clean, classic lines, Lucille has been professionally reengineered and performance built to create a custom that reportedly handles very well and runs just as strongly. The car is powered by a 350-cubic inch Tunnel Ram Port Injected Chevrolet ZZ4 V-8 engine mated to a Turbo-HydraMatic 400 three-speed automatic transmission and a 12-bolt Cadillac Posi-traction rear end. To complete the package, the Chip Foose-designed Boyds Billet Imperial aluminum wheels have Halibrand knock off caps.

The rich burgundy interior contains a complete complement of Dakota digital dash instruments in a custom aluminum insert, all painted in charcoal grey metallic. The matching sub-dash panel carries illuminated marine-style switches for the electric radiator fan, wipers, electric antenna and passenger door latch. Driver and passenger windows, as well as both vent wing windows, are all power operated. Cabin comforts include air conditioning, power seats, heat and sound insulation under the carpets and an Orion ‘Street Sounds’ package, including tweeter, mid-range and woofer speakers. Additional features include remote fuel-tank door and trunk release, alarm system and cut-off switch. All systems are fully functional as the LaSalle received an NSRA vehicle safety inspection following the build.