1956 Lagonda 3-Litre Saloon
Registration no. not registered
Chassis no. LB/290/1/171
Engine no. VB6H/570

The David Brown organisation's take-over of Lagonda in 1947 allowed production of the latter's W O Bentley-designed all-new model to commence the following year, and at the same time made Lagonda's 2.6-litre twin-cam 'six' available for the new Aston Martins. An advanced design employing a cruciform-braced chassis with independent suspension all round, the Lagonda was available as a saloon or drophead coupé, both with coachbuilt bodies. The interior with its leather upholstery, plentiful walnut and quality fittings stood comparison with that of the very best in the luxury car class. A Mark 2 version arrived in the autumn of 1952 boasting revisions to body and interior, as well as a Jackall self-jacking system.

Coachbuilders Tickford of Newport Pagnell had begun to play an increasingly important role as body suppliers during manufacture of the 2.6-Litre, and when the new 3-Litre model was announced in 1953 they assumed sole responsibility for body production of the two models offered initially - a two-door saloon and drophead coupé - and that of the four-door saloon that followed. The newly enlarged engine now produced 140bhp, an output good enough for a top speed in excess of 100mph despite the gain in weight over the '2.6'. In October 1955 a revised Mark 2 model was introduced and the range reduced to the four-door saloon only after only five Mark 2 had been built as dropheads. Expensive to produce and necessarily exclusive, the luxurious Lagondas did not sell as well as their manufacturer had hoped, though high-profile owners included HRH The Duke of Edinburgh (who had two dropheads) and actor Peter Ustinov (just the one). Only 510 2.6-Litre and 244 3-Litre models had been made by the time production ceased in 1958.

According to its accompanying copy build sheet, the Lagonda was delivered new in Lugano Blue with Grey trim. The first owner was a Miss Alicia Stubbings of Pulborough, Sussex, and the car was delivered through Brooklands of Bond Street Ltd. Also noted is the second owner, a G H King, of Maidstone, Kent. By 2005 the car had passed to a Charles Pritchard of Staffordshire, and it is understood that the current vendor purchase the car in circa 2013 and exported it from the UK. The car has been kept on static display in recent years, and re-commissioning will be required before it returns to the road.

Please note that if this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. It will also require a NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrival) and an additional fee of £250 (plus VAT) will be charged on the Invoice to prepare the NOVA. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.