From the "so unusual it's cool" file comes this impeccably dressed 1940 LaSalle coupe. Historians out there will note that 1940 was the last year for Cadillac's junior model, but that in no way diminishes the luxury and performance that was built into every one. This remarkable creation takes it to an entirely new level, however, with Cadillac V8 power, a spectacular interior, and all the creature comforts you'd expect from a Cadillac. Only a few hundred LaSalle coupes were built in 1940 before production ended for good, making this one quite a rare find indeed. Borrowing all-new "torpedo" styling from other GM divisions, it was a thoroughly modern machine that looked fantastic from any angle. This one shows a lot of evidence of serious cash being spent on its rebuild, and that classic shape has been artfully preserved and exceptionally well detailed. The sheetmetal was smoothed and prepped at an expert level, then several coats of glimmering burgundy paint went over it. Airbrushed ghost flames on the nose in candy yellows and oranges give it an old school custom look, but things like the raked-back windshield and rolled rear pan are completely stock. The tall center grille, faired-in headlights, and simple taillights are all original design elements, rendered here in show condition. Only the rear license plate bracket was shaved from the rear deck, but you won't miss it a bit. A handsome and subtle leather and cloth interior greets you when you swing the wide doors open. Perhaps in tribute to the original look, it has a somewhat vintage feel and remains in excellent condition throughout. Custom carpets, a split front bench from a late-model, and the original rear seat tie it all together quite nicely, and the door panels are simple but handsome and effective. Things like a custom A/C system mounted under the dash, a tilt column with wood-rimmed steering wheel, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo head unit fitted into the original radio's slot all suggest a no-compromises build. Even the original gauges were retained and configured to work with the big engine up front. Open the curvaceous deck lid and there's a fully upholstered trunk that shows off more creative stitching and offers plenty of storage for a long trip along the coast. The builder gets a nice tip-of-the-hat from us for staying with Cadillac power in this LaSalle, in this case a 472 cubic inch V8 from a late-60s model. The big engine is a tight fit in the pointed engine bay, and thanks to a handful of aftermarket upgrades, it runs with more gusto than any factory Caddy ever did. An Edelbrock carburetor replaces the original Quadra-Jet, and chrome valve covers make it pretty. MSD supplied one of their HEI ignition systems, and the A/C system runs R134a refrigerant to make maintenance easy. A TH400 3-speed automatic powers a 10-bolt rear, which hangs on leaf springs and a set of air shocks for the perfect ride height. Twin Flowmasters give this Cadillac a very distinctive voice, and chrome wire wheels are the prefect vintage look, especially when wrapped in 235/75/15 Coker wide whitewall radials. Beautifully built, this LaSalle more than lives up to Cadillac's reputation for quality, luxury, and performance in the 1940s. Call today! This vehicle is located in our Atlanta showroom. For more information, please call (678) 279-1609 or toll free (877) 367-1835.
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