1933 Lagonda 3 Litre Tourer

Registration No: APH 633
Chassis No: Z10405
MOT: Exempt

• Entered from a private collection.
• A comparatively late 3 Litre with the stronger 'ZM' type chassis and enlarged engine.
• Thought to have been rebodied as a Tourer during the 1950s
• Mechanically very sound and will be driven to the sale.

A derivative of the earlier 16/65, the Lagonda 3-Litre was unveiled in 1928. Progressively developed in line with its smaller 2-Litre sibling, the model made the transition from 'High Chassis' to 'Low Chassis' specification early the following decade. A somewhat conventional ladder-frame design utilising all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, friction shock absorbers and four-wheel drum brakes, the rakish Lagonda was nevertheless impeccably built. Powered by a 2,931cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the model was a true Thoroughbred (a point reinforced by Lord de Clifford's fine performances aboard a Works 3-Litre on the 1931 Monte Carlo and 1932 RAC rallies). Eager to boost sales for the 1932 model year, Lagonda began experimenting with an innovative Maybach transmission which permitted clutchless gear changing 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. In an attempt to restore performance, the Staines manufacturer subsequently increased the 3-Litre powerplant's bore from 72mm to 75mm increasing its capacity to 3,181cc. Although, the Maybach gearbox equipped `Selector Special' was short-lived, the `ZM' type chassis frame and enlarged engine remained a feature of 3-Litre production until it ceased in 1934.

Owned since 2007 by our vendor an engineer by trade, ‘APH 633’ has mainly been self-maintained however when further expertise was required, he employed the services of an ex-Rolls Royce Mechanic and also called upon BishopGray, marque specialists, to give the car a thorough inspection and stamp of approval. in 2022 our vendor informs us that circa £15,000 was spent improving the car with work including complete upholstery & carpets, overhaul of carburettors, setting up valve clearances, refurbishing magneto and setting up the clutch mechanism. ‘APH 633’ was also treated to a new hood and tonneau cover at the same time. Upon inspection she presents as a car that has been regularly used, well maintained mechanically and thoroughly enjoyed. The exterior paintwork is distressed and aged in places with signs of repair, but this just adds to the character and charm of this lovely pre-war special. The vehicle is brought to sale with a V5 and a small history file.

Please Note: This Lot is a 1933 model and not 1932 as per the printed catalogue.

For more information, please contact:
Roy Hitchman
roy.hitchman@handh.co.uk
07718 584216