Lot details
Registration No: DPC 176
Chassis No: Z11411
Mot Expiry: None

Among the rarest Lagondas ever made, the M45A measured its production span in terms of months rather than years. Notable as the last model to be signed off before Lagonda went into receivership, manufacture recommenced during Autumn 1935 once LG Motors (Staines) Ltd had taken control but is thought to have accounted for just ten saloons. An evolution of the M45 incorporating lessons learnt from the sporting M45 Rapide, the M45A utilised a modified version of the marque's proven 10-ft 9in wheelbase `ZM' chassis but with the engine set further forward so as to increase cabin space. The radiator and Girling brake system of the Rapide were adopted but otherwise the newcomer was mechanically more akin to the M45 (though, it did also share the racier model's rocker cover). Powered by an unstressed Meadows 6ESC 4453cc OHV straight-six engine allied to Meadows T8 four-speed manual transmission, the M45A was reputedly capable of 95mph. Compared to the `Silent Traveller' ST34 saloon body fitted to the M45, the pillarless four-door ST64 body found on its successor was not only roomier but also boasted a host of detail changes including: a larger, more rounded boot, reprofiled windscreen, flush door hinges, improved mouldings and restyled / valanced wings (complete with a central ridge). Of the ten M45A saloons built during Autumn 1935 apparently just two are known to have survived.

H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "Originally registered in November 1935 the saloon has had only two keepers. During 1945 the first owner, Herbert Brown, commissioned Aston Martin Ltd to undertake an extensive refurbishment of the car and its engine as detailed in the original Aston Martin records. The M45A was then purchased in 1956 by Raymond Stokes who was President of the Chester Vintage Enthusiasts Club and who regularly exhibited and showcased the car at club events. Internally, the red leather seats are original and have stood up to seventy-four years of usage. The wood veneers still exude a soft, rich sheen and the rich red roof lining, trims and carpets are in excellent condition. Externally the bodywork is very good, the paint good (save for a few blemishes) and the chromework flawless. The Meadows engine and gearbox are very good but a recent rewire still needs finishing off. This stylish and ultra rare Lagonda M45A Pillarless Saloon would grace any collection and comes with interesting historical documentation". Need we say more?