Introduced as a companion marque to Cadillac to fill a market gap above Buick, LaSalle boasted the engineering and build quality standards of the Cadillac brand at discounted prices by virtue of less individualization. Unfortunately, increasing market pressure brought on by the Great Depression forced a shakeup in the brand’s philosophy and in 1934, a whole new line of LaSalles would hit dealer floors. Priced $1,000 under the least expensive Cadillac, the new LaSalle range featured off-the-shelf components from other GM divisions with the most apparent being the Oldsmobile-sourced drivetrain. Styling, however, was forward-thinking with streamlined curves, teardrop headlamps, and circular “ventiports” along the hood. The X-type chassis featured important developments, including hydraulic brakes and independent front suspension. For 1935, all bodies were constructed by Fisher and hardtops featured an all-steel turret roof.

This immensely attractive 1935 LaSalle Series 50 Convertible Coupe is finished in black with a tan top, whitewall tires, and bright red wheels. The exterior is furnished with dual side-mounted spares, mirrors, and dual driving lights fixed to the bumper.

The LaSalle was incredibly well-preserved when the current owner added it to his collection in 2010. Previously, it had been part of the prestigious Lowell Dunne Collection. It is believed that even the paint covering the body is largely original, although the interior was re-trimmed at some point in the past. The fine touches of chrome accenting the dashing Art Deco lines have remained lustrous over the years and result in a truly wonderful sight to behold. Further aiding this handsome machine's desirability, just 820 units of this body style exited the factory gates for the 1935 model year.

This example would be a fine touring automobile for a new owner, representing the “little Cadillac” at its most audacious and stylish.