Image of 1940 Lasalle Special Series 52, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

The 1940 LaSalle Special Series 52: A Testament to Automotive Elegance

The 1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 stands as a paragon of luxury and design, encapsulating the grandeur of an era when cars were more than mere transportation; they were statements of status and style. Born from the innovative minds at Cadillac, the LaSalle emerged as a marque that blended opulence with performance. This particular model year marked the end of the line for LaSalle, making it a poignant piece of automotive history. Among its many accolades, the Series 52 was known for its role in transitioning car design from the ornate to the streamlined, a precursor to modern aesthetics.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the LaSalle Series 52 was a symphony of smooth lines and aerodynamic contours. The iconic grille, with its slender horizontal bars, gave it a face that was both aggressive and elegant. Chrome accents highlighted its sweeping fenders and the subtle creases that defined its bodywork. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury, with rich fabrics and woods adorning the cabin. The attention to detail was meticulous, from the instrument panel to the door handles, each component crafted with quality in mind. Technologically, it boasted features that were ahead of its time, such as independent front suspension for improved ride quality. Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to vibrant reds, with deep maroons being particularly popular among discerning buyers. Body styles varied, but it was the convertible coupe that captured hearts with its blend of open-air freedom and sophisticated lines.

Historical Significance

The LaSalle's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It bridged the gap between the flamboyant cars of the '30s and the more restrained designs that followed World War II. Its influence is seen in the emphasis on integrated styling elements and subdued ornamentation that became prevalent in subsequent decades. The Series 52 also represented one of the last vehicles overseen by Harley Earl, whose vision shaped General Motors' design philosophy for years to come.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior lay a robust 322 cubic inch V8 engine capable of propelling this beauty to respectable speeds for its time. While exact figures are elusive, owners reported spirited performance with smooth acceleration. The LaSalle handled with grace, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure on winding paths. Driving one today transports you back to an age where motoring was as much about the journey as it was about arriving in style.

Ownership Experience

For those fortunate enough to own a 1940 LaSalle Series 52 today, it serves various roles—from a cherished weekend cruiser to a prized showpiece at concours events. Its reliability was commendable for its era, though modern owners should expect regular maintenance to keep it in prime condition. Parts may be scarce but not unobtainable for those dedicated to preserving this slice of automotive heritage.

Fun Facts

The LaSalle holds a special place in history with some models being owned by Hollywood elites of the time. Although not known for breaking speed records, it did set a standard for luxury that few could match. Criticisms were few but did include remarks about its weight affecting fuel efficiency—a small price to pay for such grandeur.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market sees the 1940 LaSalle Series 52 as a desirable acquisition. While production numbers are not concrete, estimates suggest that several thousand were produced across all body styles. Values vary greatly depending on condition and originality but can range from $30,000 for a well-maintained example to over $100,000 for pristine convertibles or rare custom-bodied versions. Appreciation is steady as enthusiasts recognize the significance of owning Cadillac's stylish sibling at the twilight of its production.

Conclusion

The 1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 is more than just an old car; it's a rolling piece of art that embodies an era's aspirations and achievements. It stands as a testament to what automotive engineering and design could accomplish when unconstrained by convention or cost. For those who appreciate classic cars, owning a LaSalle is not just an investment; it's an honor.

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 45Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 44Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/8" wide X 4-3/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Rear Bumper Valance Splash Shield-BG 86-DRear Bumper Valance Splash Shield. '39-'40 LaSalle Series 50 and 52. Dense rubber formed extrusion. 58-1/2 in. long with correct mounting slots. Each.

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Gravel Shields. Flat without metal backing plates-FS 25Gravel Shields. Flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 16" long X 9" wide at top and 7-1/2" wide at bottom. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Gravel Shields and Narrow Body Section Gravel Shields-FS 25-26Gravel Shields and Narrow Body Section Gravel Shields. Gravel Shields: 16" long X 8-1/2" wide at top and 6-1/2" wide at bottom. Narrow Body Section: 14" long, with beaded edge extending 1" along top and bottom. Complete 4-piece set

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Narrow Body Section Gravel Shields-FS 26Narrow Body Section Gravel Shields. This part used on most models. 14" long, with beaded edge extending 1" along top and bottom. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Gas Filler Grommet. 4" long, 3-1/8" wide, 2-1/4" I.D-GF 41-AGas Filler Grommet. 4" long, 3-1/8" wide, 2-1/4" I.D. Each

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Trim Ring Lens Seals. Rubber. 7-3/4" O.D., 7-1/8" I.D-HR 10Trim Ring Lens Seals. Rubber. 7-3/4" O.D., 7-1/8" I.D. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Headlight Assembly Housing Pad. 8-3/8" O.D. Pair-HR 7Headlight Assembly Housing Pad. 8-3/8" O.D. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Tail-Light Pads. Fits 2-1/2" wide metal. 3" wide X 9" long-MP 420Tail-Light Pads. Fits 2-1/2" wide metal. 3" wide X 9" long. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Tail-Light Pads. Fits 2-1/8" wide metal-MP 421Tail-Light Pads. Fits 2-1/8" wide metal. 2-1/2" wide X 8-7/8" long. Pair

1940 LaSalle Special Series 52 Park Light Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 15" long. Pair-MP 430Park Light Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 15" long. Pair