Lagonda V12 4.5 Liter V12 1939
General description :
1939 Lagonda V12 Rapide Drophead
Coachwork by James Young
Chassis Number 14107, Engine Number 14107
Dark Green with Tan Leather Interior
Among the most celebrated and historically important motorcars, Lagonda stands as a critical motoring marque of engineering excellence and performance. Combining the design brilliance of the Art Deco era that culminated at the end of the 1930s, with the remarkable Walter Owen Bentley developed V12 engine, the Lagonda Rapide is considered among the finest and most elegant prewar cars ever developed.
The impressive and stately 60 degree angle V12 engine was developed as an outgrowth of Lagonda’s Le Mans victory in 1935 and the direct result of W. O. Bentley having become Technical Director after the sale of the company bearing his name to Rolls Royce. This combination allowed the V12 to advance the Lagonda name even further as a prestige brand, in part due to the combined massive power and precision offered in the new engine. The Lagonda was nothing short of a world class automobile, one that offered top clientele a refined and exceptional road car. 190 Lagondas were constructed between 1938 and 1940 with a mere 17 treated to the distinct Rapide performance enhancements.
This particular example is the only Lagonda Rapide Drophead commissioned with James Young coachwork. In addition to having been delivered from the factory with the Rapide designation, this car was factory equipped with Le Mans competition specified “Sanction IV” engine modifications. According to the build sheet for this car, chassis 14107 was constructed with special instructions including “No Bonnet; No Headlights; ‘Lo’ Radiator Shell; No front wing assembly.” On October 25, 1939, the 124” short wheelbase chassis was delivered to James Young Ltd, Bromley, Kent, to be fitted with custom alloy coachwork. The elegant James Young design featured a rear mounted covered spare tire, gently V shaped twin pane windscreen, blended front fender turn indicators, and covered rear wheel spats with distinctive Art Deco scalloping.
Upon completion of the alloy coachwork, the car was sold to the first owner, Major Godfrey Anthony Gillson of Cornwell Manor. Following his passing in 1944, the car was acquired by Lagonda’s former factory manager Jim Davies. In 1957, Lagonda expert and multiple Lagonda owner Jim Whitehead of Australia purchased the car for his personal collection. During the remarkable 58 year period of the Whitehead family ownership, this Lagonda Rapide was given fitting care before being sold to the current owner in 2015. Given the original condition and unique nature of the car, the owner elected to commission a top-level restoration, engaging experts at Auto Restorations of Chistchurch, New Zealand to complete the task. The restoration took two years to complete, making every effort to preserve and restore the original mechanical components, unique trim, and handmade alloy coachwork. The results of the restoration were duly rewarded in 2018 when this beautiful Lagonda Rapide flawlessly completed the Tour d’Elegance at Pebble Beach, days later was awarded First in Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Today this elegant and stately Lagonda Rapide delivers a commanding presence, exemplary restoration, and mechanical excellence throughout. The beautifully designed and unique James Young coachwork has been exquisitely restored featuring flowing fenders, Art Deco trim, dramatically scalloped rear fenders, streamlined trunk line, and a perfectly trimmed convertible roofline; gorgeously tailored, even in the up position. The elegant dark green paint captures the fluid forms of the alloy coachwork with exceptional reflection lines, particularly so given the dark hue. The finish displays excellent gloss and superb bodylines, accented by beautiful trim, reflective of the design excellence of the period. The flowing fender line is perfectly suited to the full alloy wheel covers, which have been polished to a fitting luster. Chrome trim, lighting, and various other polished elements glisten as wonderful bits of exterior jewelry, enhancing the elegant body design.
The interior is breathtaking in every respect, revealing the finest Connolly leather upholstery, burled walnut veneered finishes, and tasteful door panels, all accurately restored to the highest standards. The interior is not only elegant and impeccably trimmed, it is completed with a sense of artistry and refinement that only true artisans of this craft can achieve. Seam lines, piping, corner folds, and stitching are remarkably tailored to the highest standard. The headliner for the convertible top is so perfectly fit, that it appears to have an interior finish consistent with hardtop construction. The machined interior details, instrument presentation, rich lacquered wood finishes, and jeweled sculptural accents deliver a combination of sporting elegance and opulence – not only is the entire car an ambassador to the Art Deco period, it is one of unprecedented engineering, combined with the excellence of contemporary restoration artistry.
Unlatching the chrome levers on each side of the centrally hinged hood, the magnificent 4,480 cc overhead cam V12 engine reveals a delight of engineering, complete with four SU downdraft carburetors, and elegantly crafted details. The Sanction IV engine, rarely seen with the four carburetors, is a wonder of mechanical excellence offering quite a surprise when viewing under the hood. The original matching numbers engine has a beautiful presence enhanced by polished finishes, mechanical details, and refined craftsmanship. The engine compartment visually embodies the power and precision so thoughtfully executed in the W.O. Bentley design, celebrated by the exceptional restoration. Handsomely restored, the engine now exhibits lightly toned components conveying the integrity representative of a car that has been lovingly enjoyed, yet remains poised for a future concours victory.
The car starts easily and delivers wonderfully warm, mechanical sounds with a gentle, precise idle. The 200 hp engine benefits from the four carburetor Sanction IV factory specifications offering a hearty roar, when prompted. The manual gearbox is easily engaged, allowing this impressive automobile to pull very well while delivering a smooth and noble classic ride. Under higher speeds, the ride is quite refined, enhanced by excellent visibility, sporting but comfortable seating position and minimal wind buffeting when the top is down. For those unfamiliar with prewar cars, braking and gear selection requires some familiarization but after a few glorious miles, the result is an unmistakable driving experience.
Beautifully composed and exquisitely constructed with one of the most stunning coachbuilt alloy bodies of the Art Deco period, this Lagonda Rapide V12 Drophead delivers all the majesty and elegance of this revered marque. This phenomenal expression of restoration artistry, mechanical mastery, and coachbuilt excellence is ready for its next world-class concours, touring event, or simply to enjoy as a stunning work of sculptural art.
https://fantasyjunction.com/inventory/1939-lagonda-v12-rapide-drophead-with-coachwork-by-james-young/overview
1939 Lagonda V12 4.5 Liter V12 is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Emeryville by Fantasy Junction for $795000.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Lagonda Model : V12 Model Version : 4.5 Liter V12 Engine size : 4.5 Model Year : 1939 Location : Emeryville Vehicle Registration : Normal
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About Lagonda
Ah, the story of Lagonda, a true gem in the tapestry of British automotive history! Grab a cuppa, and let me take you on a journey through the annals of this illustrious marque.Chapter 1: The Early Years (1906-1947)
Picture this: It's 1906, and a chap by the name of Wilbur Gunn decides to put his name on the map. He establishes Lagonda Limited, and from the get-go, he's got a penchant for the fancy. Lagonda starts off with motorcycles, and Gunn even races them himself. But hold on, it gets better. By the '20s, Lagonda sets its sights on four-wheeled wonders.
Cue the roaring '20s and the birth of some exquisite machines. The Lagonda 11.1, 14/60, and the M45 Rapide become the darlings of the British motoring scene. Sleek, stylish, and a joy to drive, these Lagondas are the epitome of pre-war elegance. And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, along comes the mighty LG45.
Chapter 2: The Post-war Resurgence (1947-1974)
The war's over, and Lagonda dusts off its overalls to get back in the game. David Brown, the man behind Aston Martin, steps in, and suddenly, Lagonda is under the wing of a fellow British automotive enthusiast. The '50s see a revival with the DB2 and DB3, and the Lagonda Rapide makes its grand entrance.
But hold onto your flat caps, my friend, because the '60s usher in the mighty Lagonda Rapide sedan, a true symbol of luxury and power. Meanwhile, the stunning Aston Martin DB5 steals the spotlight in the spy world, but Lagonda keeps its cool.
Chapter 3: The Wedge Era (1976-1990)
Fast forward to the '70s, and Lagonda throws a curveball with the Lagonda Series 2. What's that you say? A wedge-shaped wonder with digital dashboards and space-age styling? Absolutely. It's the era of excess, and Lagonda embraces it with open arms. The Series 3 follows suit, and suddenly, Lagonda is the epitome of '80s opulence.
Chapter 4: The Modern Revival (1990s-Present)
The '90s and beyond see Lagonda in a bit of a slumber. But worry not, my fellow enthusiast, because the brand gets a wake-up call in the 21st century. Aston Martin, ever the steward of British motoring glory, revives Lagonda with the Taraf and the Vision Concept.
And there you have it, the tale of Lagonda, a marque that has weathered the winds of time with style, sophistication, and a dash of British eccentricity. So, tip your hat to Lagonda, a name that will forever echo through the halls of automotive elegance. Cheerio!