Image of 1940 Lasalle Series 50, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

Engine Specifications
Engine:	L-head V8
Displacement:	322 cu in (5.3 L)
Horsepower:	Estimated 130 hp
Torque:	Not available
Compression Ratio:	Not available
Ignition System:	Battery and coil
Cooling System:	Liquid-cooled
Performance Specifications
0-60 Time:	Not available
1/4 Mile Time:	Not available
Top Speed:	Estimated 85 mph
Transmission and Drive
Drive Type:	Rear-wheel drive
Transmission Type:	3-speed manual
Fuel and Efficiency
Fuel System Type:	Carburetor
MPG:	Not available
Dimensions and Brakes
Brakes:	Drum brakes
Wheelbase:	123 inches
Weight:	Estimated 3,600 lbs

Unveiling the Elegance of the 1940 LaSalle Series 50

As the curtain fell on the era of opulence that defined the 1930s, one automobile stood as a testament to enduring luxury and design—the 1940 LaSalle Series 50. Crafted by Cadillac, a marque synonymous with prestige, the LaSalle emerged as an accessible slice of sophistication. Its origin can be traced back to General Motors' desire to fill the gap between Buick and Cadillac, with LaSalle becoming a beloved brand in its own right. The Series 50 was among the final chapters in LaSalle's illustrious story, marking a poignant moment in automotive history as it bid farewell just a year later.

What sets this vehicle apart is not just its craftsmanship but also its role as a harbinger of change. As World War II loomed, the LaSalle Series 50 represented one of the last peacetime offerings before American industry pivoted to support the war effort.

Design and Innovation

The 1940 LaSalle Series 50 was a symphony of steel and chrome, with a sleek profile that exuded motion even at a standstill. Its exterior styling featured a bold, egg-crate grille that became an iconic element of LaSalle's identity. The vehicle's silhouette was long and low, with sweeping fenders that flowed into the bodywork—a hallmark of automotive design in that era.

Inside, occupants were enveloped in luxury. The cabin boasted rich materials such as fine leathers and polished woods. Despite being more affordable than its Cadillac siblings, no compromise was made on quality or comfort. Technological features for its time included a column-mounted gearshift and an optional Hydra-Matic automatic transmission—innovations that would become standard in years to follow.

Color options for the Series 50 were diverse, ranging from stately blacks and blues to vibrant reds. Among these, hues like Antoinette Blue and Valcour Maroon were particularly popular with buyers seeking both elegance and flair. Body styles included coupes, convertibles, and sedans, but it was perhaps the convertible coupe that captured hearts most with its blend of style and open-air freedom.

Historical Significance

The LaSalle Series 50's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It bridged the gap between luxury and practicality, introducing features that would become staples in future generations of automobiles. Its blend of performance and affordability set it apart from contemporaries and carved out a unique niche within the market.

The lasting influence of the LaSalle is evident in how it paved the way for post-war designs, influencing everything from body styling to technological integration within vehicles.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the 1940 LaSalle Series 50 was its robust 322 cubic inch flathead V8 engine. This powerhouse delivered smooth acceleration and was capable of reaching top speeds that flirted with 100 mph—a remarkable feat for its time. The car's acceleration from 0-60 mph was equally impressive for an automobile of its stature.

Handling-wise, drivers praised the Series 50 for its solid road presence and ability to absorb bumps gracefully. Behind the wheel, one could expect a symphony of mechanical harmony—the hum of the engine complementing the tactile feedback from the road below.

Ownership Experience

The LaSalle Series 50 served multiple roles—from daily driver to showstopper at classic car events. Its reliability was commendable for its era, though modern owners should anticipate regular maintenance to preserve this piece of automotive history. Fortunately, due to its shared DNA with Cadillac parts are relatively accessible for restoration enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

A curious tidbit about this classic is that despite its luxury status, it found favor among various police departments for its performance capabilities. While records on speed or endurance may not define it, its cultural impact does—with appearances in period films adding to its Hollywood glamour.

Criticisms were few but did include remarks on fuel consumption—a common trait among vehicles of this size during that period.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market values a well-maintained 1940 LaSalle Series 50 quite highly. Production numbers were limited as World War II approached; estimates suggest fewer than 15,000 units were produced across all body styles. Current value ranges can vary widely but expect figures northward of $40,000 for pristine examples—with rarer body styles or those with historical provenance fetching even higher prices.

The appreciation trend for this model has been positive over time as collectors recognize both its beauty and significance within automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1940 LaSalle Series 50 stands as an icon—a final flourish from a brand that encapsulated luxury without pretense. It remains not just a collector's item but also a piece of history; a reminder of an era when craftsmanship reigned supreme in automotive design. For those fortunate enough to own one today, it serves as both a joyous relic to drive and an investment into automotive heritage.