Lot 526: 1931 Lagonda 2-Litre Tourer

This charming 2-Litre Lagonda was bought by Lord Berkeley in 1961 from a fellow Cambridge undergraduate for �200, replacing an Austin Seven Chummy. The 2-Litre was a much-travelled old lady during the 1960s, taking in trips to Vienna via the Grossglockner Pass and to the mountains of Norway as well as other continental trips.

Between 2003 and 2006 a major rebuild was undertaken by respected marque specialists Cedar Classic Cars at a cost of �97,000. During the rebuild the body was removed, a full mechanical restoration of all moving parts carried out and the chassis repainted, while the engine was completely rebuilt with new pistons, bearings, valves and hardened valve seats to permit the use of unleaded fuel. All the original instruments were restored and a new dashboard made to the original pattern, the interior having previously been re-trimmed in blue hide with matching carpets by a London-based specialist circa 10-12 years ago. The wheels were rebuilt with new tyres and all the brightwork re-chromed. A new hood was made but the body�s original fabric covering has been retained together with the worn hood bag and tonneau cover, thus fulfilling the owner�s instruction to keep the car as original as possible. The result is a fully mechanically rebuilt car that retains a wonderful patination.

Only 1,000-or-so miles have been covered since restoration and �GO 5480� is reported as a delight to drive, with light and precise steering as is always the case with 2-Litre Lagondas. Offered with Swansea V5, the car will have a fresh MoT and tax at the time of sale and will provide the new owner with many years of enjoyable motoring. A most substantial history file covering the past 40 years is included in the sale, containing major bills and assorted correspondence.