Lot details
Registration No: VAS 704
Chassis No: 35515
Mot Expiry: April 2008

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 1936, the Lanchester 11hp was based around a sturdy ladder-frame chassis equipped with all-round leaf-sprung suspension and four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a smooth 1444cc OHV four-cylinder engine allied to four-speed pre-selector transmission, the model was reputedly capable of 63mph. Refined and relaxing to drive, it continued the marque tradition of quality with innovation.

Finished in maroon over black with red / brown leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "satisfactory" (pre-selector transmission, electrical equipment), "very nice" (interior trim), "good" (wheels / tyres) or "excellent" (chassis, bodywork, paintwork) condition. While, he notes that the engine was "overhauled by a previous owner". Wearing elegant four-light sports saloon coachwork by Mulliners of Birmingham, 'VAS 704' is said to have been "previously owned by a Daimler main agent who over a period of thirty years or more extensively restored all the mechanical components, repainted the excellent body and fitted fresh tyres". Riding on wire wheels, this rare surviving Lanchester is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until April 2008.