68 bhp, 1,991 cc inline six-cylinder engine, ENV Preselector transmission, semi-elliptic leaf spring and beam axle front suspension, semi-elliptic leaf spring and live axle rear suspension, and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 3,124 mm

• Elegant pre-war British coachwork

• Strikingly original with a beautiful patina

• Well-maintained by a short list of devoted owners

One of the truly great pre-war British marques, Lagonda was founded by American Wilbur Gunn, originally of Springfield, Ohio. Three-wheelers and larger-capacity twin-cylinder engines followed early motorcycles, and Gunn used one such engine to win the London to Edinburgh Reliability Trial of 1908. With the shift to four-wheeled transportation, Gunn designed a car that won the 1910 Moscow–St. Petersburg race. The company manufactured artillery shells during WWI, and Alf Cranmer, Gunn’s long-time business partner, took it over in 1920.

The year 1932 included the adoption of Lagonda’s trademark winged badge. A complex eight-speed Maybach gearbox debuted, as did the 16/80 Tourer, a sporty model with a two-litre, six-cylinder engine manufactured by Crossley. An ENV preselector gearbox was initially an option and made standard by 1933. A four-door saloon and two-door sporting model were available, but perhaps the best-known body style was the T7 open four-seater.

Chassis number S10797 is a fine example of the improved 16/80 version. This Lagonda left the works on 23 March, 1934 and therefore benefits from the 'low water pump' engine design which greatly improved cooling. Coachwork is by the Lagonda factory, and the timelessly elegant T7 Tourer, on the longer M45 chassis, is certainly among the most desirable of all Lagonda bodies. For almost the past 60 years, the Lagonda Owners Club has recorded the ownership chain and has relevant documentation on file for this car.

Consequently, the car has survived in strikingly original condition and is today finished in Lincoln Green. This T7 Tourer has the kind of delightful patina that is quite impossible to replicate. Clearly a considerable amount of devoted care, not to mention expense, has been applied. This also includes an impressive amount of mechanical attention to the springs, magneto, starter motor, valve guides and springs, as well as a rebuild of the ENV Wilson pre-selector gearbox. Cosmetically, the interior features beautifully patinated beige leather, though the Lagonda does benefit from new carpets throughout. This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire one of the most handsome thoroughbred tourers of the Classic Era from one of the greatest British marques, Lagonda.