In the junkyard discovery industry, the spotlight often shines on muscle cars from the golden era and vehicles from the 1950s. However, the attention seems to bypass pre-1940s models, leaving them relatively overlooked. Yet, for enthusiasts of pre-World War II American classics, one place stands out: an Arizona junkyard known as Antique Parts Company, situated in Salome, eastern La Paz County.
Accumulating vehicles over several decades, this scrapyard houses a diverse collection, encompassing not only coveted 1950s-to-1970s models but also a treasure trove of pre-World War II vehicles seldom seen today.
Among the notable finds documented in a comprehensive video is a 1940 Packard, a testament to the era preceding World War II when Packard reigned as the foremost luxury car manufacturer in the US. While these pre-World War II Packards are rare, they often lack the spotlight of their successors.
Further exploration reveals a 1928 Studebaker, showcasing the brand’s presence in the 1920s with models like the Big Six, Special Six, and Light Six before transitioning to iconic nomenclature in 1928, including the Commander, Director, and President.
Adding to the roster of pre-World War II gems is a 1926 Cadillac, likely a Type V-63 variant, produced from 1924 to 1930. Boasting a 314 series with a 132-inch (3,353-mm) wheelbase and powered by a 314-cubic-inch (5.1-liter) L-head V8, this Cadillac epitomizes the elegance of the era.
Exploring orphan brands, LaSalle, established in 1927 as part of GM’s “companion marque” program, stands out. Positioned between Cadillac and Buick, LaSalle aimed to fill price gaps, but its tenure was short-lived, ending in 1940. Nonetheless, vehicles like the Series 50, sharing underpinnings with the Cadillac Series 60, remain noteworthy.
Unfortunately, many of these relics may never grace public roads again. While available for sale, some may be salvaged for parts or scrapped, underscoring the fleeting nature of automotive heritage. Among the array of finds, a 1948 Chrysler New Yorker stands as a testament to untouched preservation.
