Lot details
Registration No: 974 UXC
Chassis No: 17613
Mot Expiry: Dec 2010

A true motoring pioneer, Frederick Lanchester was responsible for launching Britain's very first petrol-driven four-wheeler in 1895. Experimenting with mid-engined layouts just six years later, his 40hp car of 1919 was a more than credible rival to Rolls-Royce's 40/50hp Silver Ghost. However, the no compromise nature of Lanchester designs augured badly for its financial future and in 1930 the company was amalgamated into the BSA group (parent to Daimler since 1910). Although, sometimes dismissed as badge-engineered Daimlers, 1930s Lanchesters retained their own sense of character and benefited - alongside their siblings - from an impressive engineering pool that included such luminaries as Laurence Pomeroy. Introduced in 1932, the Lanchester 10hp was based around a sturdy ladder-frame chassis equipped with all-round leaf-sprung suspension and four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a smooth 1203cc OHV four-cylinder engine allied to four-speed pre-selector transmission, the model was reputedly capable of circa 60mph. Refined and relaxing to drive, it continued the marque tradition of quality with innovation.

Finished in cream over blue with black leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "very good" (engine, four-speed pre-selector gearbox, electrical equipment), "good" (interior trim) or "excellent" (coachwork, paintwork) condition. Reputedly the only 1933 LA10 of its kind known to exist, `974 UXC' is further understood to "start on the button, be in very good running order and fear no hills". Said to have been "recently stripped to bare metal and professionally repainted", the Lanchester further boasts "an excellent soft-top, re-chromed brightwork and good tyres". Apparently "a joy to drive", this charming post-Vintage tourer is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until December 2010.