For 1933, both the Cadillac V-8 and the “junior Cadillac,” the LaSalle, adopted new streamlined styling, including a redesigned radiator shell and skirted fenders, as well as vacuum-assisted brakes. The LaSalle was further distinguished by a hood with ventilation doors rather than louvers, unique bumpers, and redesigned lights, and rode a chassis shortened by four inches.

Unfortunately, as the Great Depression wielded its wrath, sales plunged to 3,482 cars, resulting in this being the last year that the LaSalle would share many of its components with the Cadillac.

The car offered here was one of just 146 LaSalle convertible coupes produced in 1933, and is one of very few known to have survived. Acquired by its current owner in 2009, it had for 24 years been part of Dr. Barbara Atwood’s renowned collection, known for its carefully chosen and superbly restored Full Classic automobiles. The restoration of the LaSalle had aged slightly and the new owner freshened it, including new paintwork on its nicely straight bodywork, refinished wire wheels, and a new convertible top. The car shows some wonderful period-correct touches, including Trippe driving lights, a correct winged bird radiator mascot, and dual side-mounted spares with metal covers, as well as an AM radio in the center of the dashboard.

In some respects, LaSalle had it all – the engineering of a Cadillac combined with leading-edge styling and design. Enthusiasts today recognize the ’33 as one of the rarest and most desirable examples of the marque, and there can be no doubt that this convertible coupe is the prettiest.