Fantasy Junction

Description

1934 Lagonda M45-Powered Special-Bodied Tourer
Chassis No. - Z11226
Engine No. – 12670/2976
Gearbox No. – T8 322/5485
Black with Burgundy Leather Interior

Considered one of the most historically important pre-war motorcars, Lagonda engineering set a high bar for excellence building a premier motoring experience at the dawn of the automotive age. With their stately presence and robust performance, Lagonda became quickly recognized among wealthy clientele and sporting enthusiasts. Founded in the UK in 1906, the first sports model Lagondas arrived in 1925 with the newly developed twin-cam 1,954 cc four-cylinder, five-main bearing crankshaft hemispherical chamber engine. New engine innovations arrived through the coming years as Lagonda won international acclaim with competition victories.

This desirable Lagonda features special bodywork assembled over a shortened 120” chassis. Historic research performed under previous ownership included examining pre-war Lagonda service records confirming chassis Z11226 was originally fitted with a closed factory saloon body. In the late 1940s or early 50s, the car became part of the substantial and renowned collection of Mr. Harry Ellard. An enthusiast with more than 100 cars stored at his factory included cars under his near half century of ownership, Ellard was one of the earliest pioneers of vintage car collecting. Upon his passing in 1984, his collection was subsequently auctioned by his estate. Tony Longmate, proprietor of the classic car restoration house “Oaklands”, purchased the car for his personal use.

With both technical and crafting resources at his disposal, Longmate began the restoration in 1985 with the removal of the deteriorating saloon body and construction of an all-new ash-frame fabric-covered body fabricated in the style of open 3-Liter Lagondas of the early 1930s. The open four seat body was trimmed with a new interior, a new centrally mounted alloy hood fitted to a Lagonda grille, and a specially made soft top with side curtains. Under the hood, a correct M45 Meadows 4.5-Liter engine was fully rebuilt, fitted to an original Lagonda 4-speed gearbox. A high-ratio 3.3 rear axle was installed for ideal touring at modern road speeds. In addition to the correct Lagonda drivetrain, numerous period-correct accessory components were used including proper vintage instrumentation, authentic driving controls, and cosmetic details consistent with Lagondas of this period. In keeping with the historic respect afforded in the build, in 1995 the car was petitioned for reissue of the original UK registration number BGT 269 which was honorably granted by the DVLA. The license plates have since remained with the car. After a fifteen-year period of careful crafting and sourcing, the finished car was tested and refined in 2000.

After the car was completed, Longmate enjoyed it for some years until the next fortunate custodian engaged his ownership. This subsequent owner spared no expense to make the car to yet another level including the installation of a Laycock overdrive unit which further increased cruising speeds without taxing the rev range of the robust engine. Additional work performed by Greenwood Motorsports during this period included general engine and brake services, replacing the crown wheel and pinion, new wiring, period correct spats fitted to the front fenders, dual spare tires mounted at the rear of the car, and the construction of a cleverly hidden storage compartment suitable to house the full set of side screens – a helpful feature when encountering inclement weather whilst on a vintage tour. In 2008 this car was on hand at the Le Mans Classic where the owner at that time used it as his support vehicle during the event and later participated flawlessly in the Flying Scotsman Rally from London to Edinburgh.

In 2012 the car was offered for sale at Fantasy Junction and sold to the current owner. Under current ownership this beautiful Lagonda has been stored as part of a private collection and used minimally. In preparation for sale, the car has been serviced, the fuel lines flushed, fuel pump serviced, all fluids checked, and operational adjustments performed as needed.

Today this Lagonda delivers a wonderfully authentic visual experience coupled with mechanical delights unique to the pre-war era. The fabric covered coachwork is refined, taut, and beautifully balanced to the wheelbase and fender lines. The finishes are proper for a car that has dutifully served the interests of its former custodians as an enjoyable motorcar now showing an appropriate level of patina consistent with enthusiast use. The fabric body is in excellent condition terminating at the cowl where the louvered alloy hood encloses the M45 engine fronted by the distinct Lagonda grille, large diameter headlamps, and a central road lamp. Befitting the sporting nature of this Lagonda, the wire wheels are painted black to match the body and the black wall Excelsior Comp H 6.5 x 19 tires convey a purposeful stance.

The interior has gently worn over the past twenty years with some edge wear to the front seats and modest aging to some of the painted interior surfaces. A thoughtful combination of leather, wood, and vintage instrumentation handsomely complete the interior. Other appropriate touches include Lagonda etched metal thresholds, a commanding four-spoke steering wheel, competition lap belts for the front seats, and standard seat belts for the rear passengers. Hand lever controls, solid single pane windscreen, polished door hinges, and beautifully shaped floating running boards bring a great deal of majesty to this Lagonda.

Unlatching the leather belted hood straps, the hood tilts up and lays flat against the central hinge, revealing the magnificent 4.5-Liter Lagonda engine. Outfitted with dual carburetors, elegantly crafted details deliver a wonderful combination of vintage excellence. Magnificent castings, hand formed parts, and copper and brass fittings all convey the traditions of pre-war era cars. The finishes are gently aged and appropriately detailed for event use. The engine has a beautiful yet purposeful presence enhanced by authentic finishes, mechanical details, and refined craftsmanship bolstered by a modern cooling fan to aid operational use. The original chassis plate bears the chassis number which is reflected on the current California title. The Lagonda engine and gearbox stampings are clean strike marks consistent with factory original castings. The undercarriage displays parts and components reflective of original construction including the Lagonda gearbox and contemporary Laycock overdrive unit, Underside finishes are clean and correct though not detailed for concours presentation. Every aspect of this car embodies the sporting manner of the Lagonda name and ongoing stewardship from dedicated enthusiasts, depicting a clear vision of pre-war motoring - poised for continued vintage events and tours under new ownership.

This beautiful Lagonda starts with proper prompts and consideration for vehicles of this age. Once warmed, the car idles smoothly and runs effectively on pump gas. The manual gearbox is easily engaged once familiar with the clutch and shift lever operation. At higher speeds, the chassis feels comfortable with excellent visibility and comfort for passengers. Braking is consistent with pre-war cars, but, as with every engaging aspect of this car, the motoring experience returns wonderful rewards far beyond the convenience of cupholders and infotainment screens. This Lagonda is accompanied by a series of spare parts, a set of tools in a tool roll, a tire pressure gauge, and spare distributor.

Cleverly crafted for sporting driving and lovingly maintained by marque enthusiasts, this 1934 Lagonda delivers majestic driving experiences, fulfilling the raw engaging pleasure of open motoring via touring events, vintage gatherings, or the simple pleasure of country road driving far removed from the frenzied highways and tempests of technology.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608