This 1936 Lagonda LG45 is one of just 26 Drop Head Coupes produced and has an advertised top speed of 100 mph. It is the first of the Lagondas built under the technical direction of Walter O. Bentley after he left the Rolls-Royce Motors in 1935. It is wearing the original coachwork designed by Frank Feeley.
The Lagonda 4.5 litre six-cylinder was perhaps the fastesr, largest, most visually impressive British performance super-car of the 1930s. It won Le Mans in 1935 averaging 77.8 mph over 24 hours.
Due to their importance in automotive history, all 26 Drop Head Coupes still remain in some form today and this example has been fully documented by the Lagonda Club UK. This vehicle has been toured extensively, including the Colorado Grand and 20,000 miles through the UK and Continental Europe.
The 1936 Lagonda LG45 is a quintessential example of pre-war British luxury and engineering excellence. With its powerful inline-six engine, elegant design, and luxurious interior, it remains an enduring symbol of automotive sophistication. The LG45's historical significance, combined with its racing pedigree and timeless appeal, makes it one of the most celebrated classic cars from the golden age of motoring.
Background
- Manufacturer: Lagonda
- Year: 1936
- Model: LG45
Specifications
- Engine: The LG45 is powered by a 4.5-liter (4,467 cc) inline-six engine. This engine produced around 140 horsepower, providing ample power for its time.
- Transmission: It features a four-speed manual transmission, known for its smooth operation and reliability.
- Chassis: The car is built on a robust chassis with a substantial wheelbase, contributing to its stability and ride comfort.
- Suspension: The suspension system includes semi-elliptic leaf springs at the front and rear, along with hydraulic shock absorbers, providing a balanced mix of comfort and handling.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The LG45 was available in various body styles, including tourer, saloon, and drophead coupe. Each body style offered a unique blend of elegance and functionality, catering to different customer preferences.
- Design: The design of the LG45 is a perfect example of pre-war British luxury, featuring flowing lines, a distinctive grille, and classic wire wheels. The car exudes a sense of sophistication and timeless style.
- Interior: The interior of the LG45 is luxurious, with high-quality leather upholstery, wood trim, and well-crafted instrumentation. The cabin is designed to offer a high level of comfort and a refined driving experience.
Performance
- Speed: The Lagonda LG45 could achieve a top speed of around 95 mph (153 km/h), making it one of the faster cars of its era.
- Acceleration: It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 13 seconds, which was quite respectable for a luxury car in the 1930s.
- Handling: The LG45 was praised for its handling characteristics, with a well-tuned suspension system and responsive steering that made it enjoyable to drive on various road conditions.
Historical Significance
- Engineering Excellence: The LG45 was known for its advanced engineering and high build quality, reflecting Lagonda's commitment to producing top-tier automobiles.
- Racing Pedigree: The LG45 was also adapted into racing versions, such as the LG45R Rapide, which saw success in endurance racing events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This racing heritage added to the car's prestige and allure.
- Economic Context: Despite being produced during a challenging economic period leading up to World War II, the LG45 managed to stand out as a symbol of luxury and performance.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the Lagonda LG45 is highly prized by classic car collectors and enthusiasts. Its combination of engineering excellence, elegant design, and historical significance makes it a sought-after classic.
- Cultural Impact: The LG45 is often featured in classic car shows, auctions, and museums, where it continues to attract admiration for its beauty and craftsmanship.
- Enduring Appeal: The LG45's design and performance have left a lasting legacy in the automotive world, influencing future generations of luxury and performance cars.
You may purchase a print of the 1936 Lagonda LG45 in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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