Embodying the adventurous spirit and refined elegance of interwar motoring aristocracy, the M45 T8 Tourer offered here boasts outstanding provenance and a numbers-matching 4.5-liter, twin-plug engine. As documented by a copy of its factory build sheet, chassis 11165 was delivered new on 22 October 1934 to the Honorable Peter Pleydell-Bouverie, uncle and godfather to renowned vintage car enthusiast Simon Kidston. In accompanying correspondence, Kidston suggests it may have been Mr. Pleydell-Bouverie’s wife Audrey, described as “nuts about cars” and with “plenty of money to buy them,” who was the true driving force behind the Lagonda’s acquisition.

In keeping with the family of automotive fanatic’s fleet, chassis 11165 was built to perform and to turn heads while doing it. Delivered from the factory in striking black with matching chassis, wings, and flared mudguards, it featured a richly appointed cabin trimmed in “Red Antique” upholstery, accented by a fine red pinstripe encircling the body. A host of desirable factory features included Lucas P100 “flamethrower” headlamps with a central driving lamp, an Ashby steering wheel, Amal bonnet fasteners, Blackhawk jack, Smiths instruments, polished wood dashboard, and dual horns. Black wire wheels with Dunlop “Silent Tread” tires and a black twill top completed its purposeful and menacing look.

The build sheet reveals evidence of spirited use throughout the mid-1930s, with chassis 11165 returning to the factory on an almost monthly basis for servicing, mechanical upgrades, and repairs—no doubt following enthusiastic driving. During this period, the original gearbox is believed to have been replaced with an Alvis four-speed synchromesh unit for improved performance. Laid up during World War II, the Lagonda returned to active use post-war, as evidenced by a 1948 photograph showing the car competing in a hillclimb taken by Louis Klemantaski, pioneer of motor racing photography.

In the 2000s, chassis 11165 was acquired by an Oregon-based collector who reportedly drove it in various vintage rallies before commissioning an extensive 2012 refurbishment by UK-based Lagonda specialist Davie Ayre. Following acquisition by the consignor, Ayre was entrusted with further work, including a differential rebuild and servicing the brakes, electrical system, and cylinder head. Now finished in red over black, this fascinating example is offered with correspondence from the original owner’s family, service records, British registration book, and a copy of its factory build sheet.

With its rich provenance and documented care, this hugely appealing four-seat tourer offers timeless elegance with bare-knuckle pre-war performance, making it an ideal entry point into the world of these revered classics.