Lot details
Registration No: KF 5369
Chassis No: 9717
Mot Expiry: Aug 2013

The Lagonda 3 Litre began production in late 1929 as successor to the 2 Litre. In fact the 2 Litre continued to be made in various guises until 1933, while the 3 Litre was phased out the following year. The early 3 Litres utilised a Z type 10ft 9in wheelbase chassis which was an extended and modified version of that employed by the four-cylinder 2 Litre. Elongated from the scuttle forwards, the revised frame could thus accommodate the newcomer's six-cylinder engine. The 'heavy pattern' Z type gearbox and ENV rear axle were used providing a final drive ratio of 4.1:1.

Eager to boost sales for the 1932 model year, Lagonda began experimenting with an innovative Maybach transmission which permitted clutchless gearchanging and yielded eight forward ratios. However, the downside to such sophistication was a significant weight increase not least because of the need for a new specially reinforced `ZM' type chassis frame. The 3 Litre model's initial bore and stroke stood at 72mm x 120mm providing 2931cc capacity. These earlier engines are instantly identified by six camshaft tunnel covers on the side of the block. On later cars this capacity was increased to 3181cc with a bore of 75mm - the larger engine is recognised by corresponding 3 plate camshaft tunnel covers and a deeper rocker cover to accommodate longer valve stems.

Both engines boasted a robust seven-bearing crankshaft and a fully flooded roller cam follower and valve actuation design. This provided a quiet and smooth operation with a longer operating life than was commonly achieved amongst its peers. A true thoroughbred, the 3 Litre attracted a select clientele and enjoyed sundry competition success (most notably Lord de Clifford's fine performances aboard a Works 3-Litre on the 1931 Monte Carlo and 1932 RAC rallies).

The car on offer - chassis number 9717 - is being sold as part of the estate of former VSCC member Roy Jones who acquired it in 1963 and embarked upon a lengthy restoration thereafter. The Lagonda's extensive history file dates back to 1938 and includes photographic evidence of its refurbishment. Prospective purchasers are invited to inspect the relevant paperwork themselves but we believe that the car has had just three keepers over the past seventy-four years (a supposition supported by the documented history and old buff logbook on file).

This 3 Litre is an early example and its Z type low chassis benefited from straightening, resetting, rivet tightening, blasting and zinc spraying not to mention the fitting of new cross members by Rubery Owen in 1972. The 2931cc engine was extensively overhauled by Jim Pike of Excel Engineering during 1987 and the car is believed to have covered little mileage since. The Lagonda has the ZE gearbox which was refurbished around 1986. Numerous - if not all - aspects of the car appear to have been restored including the dashboard instrumentation, a new radiator and headlamps, repainted bodywork, etc - much of the work being supported by receipts. Featuring most attractive T1 fabric-covered coachwork, the car further boasts the 11-inch tall windscreen style offered by Lagonda which will obviously appeal to the taller variety of driver.

The prolonged nature of the restoration is commented on by Mr Jones in a letter dated 1985, "the prospect of the restoration taking so many years with only limited time available resulted in the decision to acquire another car for vintage motoring which eclipsed work on the Lagonda". Despite the 3 Litre being finally complete it has seen little use and is now looking for a worthy recipient to enjoy the fruits of its rejuvenation.

Although not registered until 1931 the chassis number shows that it was constructed prior to then; confirmation being given by the VSCC Secretary of the time, T.W. Carson, that any number below 9780 certifies the car as Vintage. It is probable that the present eligibility committee would accept this ruling.

The tourer has recently been inspected, on 7th August, and tested by the Lagonda Club's acknowledged authority on the 3 litre model, John Ryder, who found "no obvious faults were apparent and the condition overall is excellent. The quality of the extensive restoration work is exemplary. The vehicle has recently passed an MOT but has covered very little mileage and would obviously benefit from some light re-commissioning. This is a unique opportunity to acquire an example of this most desirable of Lagonda models. A thriving, active club operates an extensive spares scheme with specific technical advice and practical assistance available via several members offering specialist services."