Description
The launch of the Aston Martin Lagonda at Aston Clinton in October 1976 marked a return of the Lagonda name which had remained largely dormant since the Rapide model ceased production in 1964.
The new Lagonda’s platform chassis used the V8’s suspension, although now self-levelling. Brakes were ventilated discs all round, mounted in-board at the back, while the 5,340cc four camshaft alloy V8 engine, mated to a three speed automatic transmission, produced 280bhp at 5,000rpm via quadruple Weber carburettors – sufficient for 148mph and 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds, making the Lagonda the fastest four door saloon in the world.
It was the futuristic, aerodynamic, aluminium coachwork, however, that was a radical departure with its sleek, sharp and straight-edged lines. Inside, too, the design was radical, with advanced digital, cathode-ray tube instrumentation with electronic push-button switchgear.
Throughout the history of the marque, these hand-built Lagondas were amongst the most expensive saloons in the world. The only other “production” cars to approach its lofty price tag were the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit/Silver Spur and Bentley Mulsanne.
The example on sale today has been stored since 2001, it is complete with no missing parts, and the engine was recently started by an Aston Martin Specialist, with good compression noted. In good condition Lagondas fetching over £70,000, this project is a rare opportunity for an Aston Martin enthusiast, with the potential to turn a healthy profit.
