1933 Lagonda 16/80 T3 Tourer

Lot details
Registration No: JJ 565
Chassis No: T.B.A.
Mot Expiry: April 2007

Introduced in August 1932, the 16/80 S-Type Special Six was aimed at the moderate horsepower, six-cylinder sportscar market as typified by Alfa Romeo's 6C 1750. Based on the chassis of its 2-litre 'Continental' forbear, the new Lagonda model employed Crossley's proprietary 1991cc, straight-six OHV engine in a well-balanced, leaf-sprung, ladder-framed chassis. Equipped with all-round drum brakes, the 16/80 (named after its RAC horsepower rating and top speed respectively) could be ordered with either a manual or pre-selector four-speed gearbox. The latter option gave notably snappy acceleration due to its swift changes and the powerplant's unusually high 5,000rpm rev limit. Arriving at Staines fully assembled, each engine was nonetheless stripped down, measured (blueprinting of a sort) and modified with better water porting arrangements etc. Despite being extremely well built and not overpriced just 150 16/80s are thought to have survived.
Finished in British Racing Green with suede green leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "sound" (chassis), "good" (2107cc engine, four-speed manual gearbox) or "very good" (bodywork) condition. Although, "much rebuilt by its long-term previous owner", 'JJ 565' is understood to have since been "rewired, repainted and retrimmed". Reportedly retaining its original T3 factory coachwork, the Lagonda rides on knock-off wire wheels shod with fresh tyres. Further benefiting from "a new screen, hood and tonneau", it is said to be a "very attractive, comfortable tourer which starts, drives, steers and stops delightfully". Nicely presented, this handsome Lagonda is offered for sale with "original handbook, FIVA papers, old correspondence, MOT certificate valid until April 25th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until November 2006.