1925 Lagonda 12/24 S Saloon

Although best known as a manufacturer of sports and luxury cars, Lagonda began by making motorcycles and tri-cars before progressing to a series of highly innovative Light Car designs culminating in the 12/24 of 1924. Weighing just 12cwt (c.600kg), the newcomer was of semi-monocoque construction – like the Lancia Lambda – whereby its chassis and lower body were assembled as a single integral unit. Powered by a 1,460cc four-cylinder OISE engine allied to three-speed manual transmission, the 12/24 also featured a revised back axle with spiral bevel final drive and improved rear wheel drum brakes (fronts were an optional extra). Capable of over 50mph and 40mpg, the Lagonda was praised by the contemporary motoring press for its hill-climbing ability and high quality fittings / fixtures. Of the 2,250 12/24 cars thought to have been completed, just five survivors are known to the Lagonda Club.

There may be five survivors but, according to our knowledgeable vendor, only one is a 12/24 S Saloon. This delightful 12/24 still wears its original saloon bodywork finished in red and black, with red artillery wheels and a new fabric roof in 2003. The engine was rebuilt by the well respected Ivan Dutton and, according to our vendor, still runs beautifully propelling this vintage Lagonda to not far short of 50mph. The interior has been retrimmed in the past and presents really well in button-back, black vinyl and the dashboard and instruments are excellent. As is normal these days, it's been fitted with discrete direction indicators in the interests of common sense.

It was purchased by our vendor in 2010 and, from the limited history with the car, it was previously registered as RU 1310 and lived in Kent in 1961, moving to Glasgow a few years later. It has been well used in the last few years including a Lagonda Owner's Club Rally in France in 2015 and a Country Fair at Chatsworth House.

Simply charming and, as the last surviving 12/24 Saloon, correctly described as unique, BF 4590 is eminently usable on the right days and will provide many more years of fun with like-minded souls.