Unlike Ford, which made the Model T – and only the Model T – in the same mechanical configuration for almost two decades, GM pursued a different strategy: it cultivated a product ladder. By introducing companion makes at lower price levels for each of its divisions, GM blanketed the market with options for buyers. The LaSalle was the second such car, introduced as a junior to the Cadillac in 1927. Of course, Harley Earl, its designer, strove to differentiate the LaSalle from its more expensive sibling, giving it a lithe, agile look. The car could be optioned on a 125″ wheelbase, shorter than anything Cadillac offered, yet power was supplied by Cadillac’s “Ninety-Degree V8”. It sold well, eventually eclipsing Cadillac sales by 2X. Here on eBay is a 1935 LaSalle Series 50 three-window coupe – one of the rarer body styles – bid to $60,000 with reserve not met. This car was originally sold in California, exported to Japan in 2012, then imported back to Lodi. The seller indicates he hasn’t had time to enjoy the car, so it needs to move along to a new owner.

Cadillac’s strategy worked almost too well. The notion of a less expensive offering at Buick, Oakland, Cadillac and Oldsmobile began to crowd out primary marques here and there. Pontiac, in fact, was the death knell for Oakland. Over at Packard, some say the move down-market with the 120 harmed the marque irretrievably. Likely sensing that differentiation from Cadillac was desirable, the LaSalle was situated on the Oldsmobile B-platform starting in 1934. It still shared styling cues with Cadillac, but in common with other cars in GM’s line-up, it no longer harbored a V8 in the engine bay. Instead, Oldsmobile’s straight-eight was utilized, though it was assembled at the LaSalle factory. This seller didn’t supply an engine bay photo (we asked), but it will be a 248 cu. in. L-head straight-eight making about 105 bhp and backed by a three-speed manual. The car runs but requires a tune-up.

A hallmark of the LaSalle/Cadillac connection was luxury, and it shows – the upholstery is mohair and that instrument panel is a cut above the average Chevrolet. This interior is in outstanding condition, showing little wear. The headliner is near perfect. While the engine bay photo is missing, we were pleased to see this view of the jump seat in the rear, folded up against the rear panel.

Harley Earl redesigned the LaSalle in 1934, narrowing the grille, rounding the nose, and highlighting the hood line with shrouded portholes. The overall condition of this example is high-driver quality, judging from the photos. While this body style is rare, the current bid seems generous to me; if I were the seller, I’d take that bid. What do you think?