Best known as “The Black Pearl”, this stunning 1940 LaSalle-based Kustom honors the Harry Westergard tradition with a modern twist. Jim Bailie of Windsor’s Metalshapers extensively reworked the original coupe body, with every body panel subtly customized in a traditional fashion. A deep black PPG exterior finish, Coker wide whitewall tires and steel wheels with ’54 Cadillac hubcaps complete the smooth and tasteful exterior.
The very luxurious ultra leather interior features 8-way power seats, a custom console, a wrap-around rear seat, and custom wooden inserts. Amenities include A/C, power windows, remote doors, a backup camera, and Dakota digital gauges.
The completely updated drivetrain consists of a 300-hp, fuel injected Cadillac Northstar V-8 engine backed by a GM THM 700R4 four-speed overdrive automatic. Underpinnings include a Camaro front subframe and suspension with disc brakes, as well as a 3.73:1 GM rear axle.
Once finished in 2007, the car was shown at the Detroit Autorama, the Goodguys Columbus Nationals, and at the Goodguys Rhinebeck, New York event, earning a Rod & Custom “Top Ten” pick and several other awards. It has also appeared in the Goodguys Gazette, Rod & Custom, Street Rodder, and Canadian Hot Rods. With only three national-level show appearances, the new owner will be able to continue to show the car and add to the awards earned by “The Black Pearl”. This stunning, high-quality Kustom displays impeccable fit, finish, and workmanship throughout. It was sold at Collector Car Productions’ 2011 Toronto Fall Classic Car Auction, garnering a winning bid of $44,000.