Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 145
1929 LaSalle Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton Chassis no. 414551 Engine no. 414551
Estimate: US$50,000 - US$65,000
Lot 145
1929 LaSalle Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton
1929 LaSalle Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton
Chassis no. 414551
Engine no. 414551
Chassis no. 414551
Engine no. 414551
328ci V-8 Flathead
85bhp at 2000rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Solid front and rear axle suspension
4-Wheel Mechanical Brakes
*Intriguing history
*CCCA Full Classic TM
*Desirable Dual Cowl Phaeton
*Powerful V-8 engine
THE LASALLE SERIES 328
Introduced in 1927, the LaSalle was intended by General Motors to fill a perceived gap in the model range between Buick and Cadillac. Handsomely styled by Harley Earl, the LaSalle inspired General Motors to establish a separate division known as 'Art and Color' responsible for automotive styling, naturally with Earl at the helm. Built by Cadillac to the same high-quality standards, the LaSalle employed an advanced 303ci V-8 engine developing 75 horsepower and offered exceptional performance. For 1929, Cadillac offered further technical improvements on the LaSalle, introducing synchromesh on second and top gears along with safety glass. Mechanical changes included Duplex mechanical brakes, pressure lubrication on the piston pins, and mid-year metric spark plugs were adopted.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
The dual cowl phaeton is one of the most attractive body styles on offer by GM and Fisher coachworks in the 1920s and into the 1930s. This particular example is no exception.
The first known owner of this car was a Mr. David Hamsey of Lakeville, CT. Shortly after acquiring it in 1950, the car was put through a gentle reconditioning that included paint, upholstery, and a new top. However, the car was never disassembled.
Building up a bit of notoriety, it would be seen routinely by many enthusiasts in the area at a yearly pancake breakfast put on by Mr. Hamsey, earning it the nickname "the Pancake Car." Mr. Hamsey would retain ownership of the LaSalle until the 1980s. At this time, it passed into the collection of the current consigners. In this ownership it has been carefully maintained and kept on the button for weekend drives. In fact, it was driven regularly to Cape Cod during summers, and then driven back to Connecticut on a yearly basis.
Today this rare dual cowl phaeton presents very well. The restoration and paintwork done in the 1950s has developed a great deal of patina and character. The dual cowl phaeton has long been considered one the most attractive Fisher body designs. This car would be a welcome participant on numerous vintage car tours, or weekend shows. With its striking good looks, the opportunity to acquire this example should not be missed.
Saleroom notices
Please note, the title for this vehicle will be in transit.
Additional information
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