This is a beautiful 1939 LaSalle Series 50 Opera Coupe (body no.
2196) that was awarded the 1991 AACA National 1st Place and the
2002 CLC Grand National 1st Place awards. It had been owned by a
gentleman by the name of Preston Helgren of Gurnee, IL for several
decades before a well known collector purchased the LaSalle for his
collection in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In 2006, this car underwent
a full restoration and has been featured on the cover of Hemmings
magazine! It comes complete with years and years worth of
documents, receipts, and records further detailing the history of
this car. Today, this LaSalle may present to some as an older
restoration, though the signs of wear are extremely minimal.
Mechanically speaking, this car is in very good running condition.
We did not find any issues with the motor, transmission, brake
system; our conclusion is that this is a mechanically sound vehicle
ready to be driven. Its original 322 L-head V8 engine and 3 speed
column shift transmission are powerful and dependable.
Cosmetically, the Dark Maroon paint (Paint Code: 61) has very good
depth and luster. Imperfections are minimal. The chrome is in very
good to excellent condition throughout. This LaSalle comes with
both side view mirrors, the deluxe grill guard and auxiliary fog
lights. We love the running board delete and the lack of side
mounts which accentuate the curves of the body. This is the ideal
style for a 1939 LaSalle. Likewise, the tan wool broadcloth trim
(Trim Code: 31) is beautifully presented. The interior is equally
as nice, with the leather, carpets, and headliner all looking clean
and free of any blemishes. The painted faux wood trim on the dash
and window surrounds throughout are also very well done and in very
nice condition. The deluxe steering wheel is in excellent condition
as well. The rear folding jump seat allows for ample storage of
luggage, but can accommodate two people for shorter distance (as in
driving to dinner and then the opera!). With low production numbers
and a relatively unpopular consumer response when new, its very
unique to see such a nice example of an Opera Coupe today. Our
impressions of this vehicle are overall very good and were quite
certain its next new owner will share the same sentiments. The
LaSalle comes compete with owners and shop manuals, a car cover and
excellent documentation of its restoration and history, both photos
and receipts. For more details, please call, text or email Harry
Clark at 1.602.245.7200 or
[email protected]. The LaSalle
can be viewed at our showroom in Phoenix, Arizona.
