The T7 factory prototype
1933 Lagonda 4½-Litre M45 T7 Tourer

• Well documented ownership history
• Outstandingly original
• Present ownership since 1997
• Professional full engine rebuild in 2023

"Lagonda cars have always upheld a reputation for effortless fast touring and the pride of ownership which fine detail work and distinguished coachbuilding can give. The 4½-Litre model retains these characteristics, but scores considerably over its forebears by its high power-to-weight ratio. The chassis is no bigger than the three-litre car, and there is no suggestion of clumsiness, heavy steering or the other drawbacks which often accompany the large engined car." - Motor Sport, January 1934.

Our vendor says he can only echo the sentiments expressed by the Motor Sport road-tester: "This M45 covers the miles effortlessly, with its light, accurate steering, quick and easy gear change and powerful servo-assisted brakes. As one looks out over the long bonnet the feeling of strong, powerful and effortless British engineering quality is inspiring."

The 4½-Litre Lagonda was one of the most accomplished sports cars of the 1930s, as a succession of high-profile race wins, culminating in victory at Le Mans in 1935, amply demonstrates. Introduced at the 1933 Olympia Show and based on the preceding ZM 3-Litre model, the M45 deployed Meadows' 4½-litre, twin-plug six to good effect, saloons being capable of reaching 90mph and tourers 'the ton'.

'AUL' is a significant car in the model's history, being the first M45 fitted with T7 coachwork, and indeed, only the third M45 made by Lagonda. As the T7 prototype it has various unique features: the rear wings have a valance fitting them flush with the body (deleted on production cars to save money), while the front light brackets and various other details are unique too. The T7 body style is the most sought after factory coachwork, and this being the prototype makes it all the more desirable.

'AUL' is also the most original M45 the vendor has encountered, and it is believed to be the most original T7-bodied car extant. Traces of the original green paint can be found throughout the body, chassis and running gear, while it is believed the body has never been off the chassis. It is also believed the wings on the car are almost entirely original: most unusual on these cars where the enormously long wings are prone to corrosion and accident damage. 'AUL' also retains the inner wing protectors, which are often either discarded entirely or incorrectly fitted.

Original Lagonda records show that 'AUL' was delivered new to Dr Otto Langer in October 1933, finished in green with a black hood. Initially fitted with engine number 'M45/3', the car has been for many years fitted with engine number 'M45/12'. It is firmly believed that this engine was fitted by Lagonda as a factory replacement early on in the car's life, a frequent occurrence with these cars. The records also show that the car was upgraded to a T8 Meadows gearbox in January of 1934, the original Lagonda gearbox fitted to this prototype being unable to cope with the Meadows engine's torque.

These records detail various servicing works and the car's subsequent passing into the hands of P J R Barlow in 1935, with ongoing servicing shown up to 1938 (see photographs on file showing the car with Barlow as purchased in 1935). The Lagonda remained with Barlow until 1948. There is then a gap in the ownership records until 1960, when 'AUL' was with well-known Lagonda collector Captain Ivan Forshaw. It was subsequently sold to dealer Dan Margulies, who had the car repainted the current red and reupholstered. He in turn sold the Lagonda to renowned UK collector Bruce Spollon in 1974. 'AUL' then passed through the trade before going in 1981 to Richard Wills, another well-known collector. The car would remain with Wills until 1988. 'AUL' then went passed the hands of Studd, Bevan & Tucker, before being purchased by the current owner in 1997.

A leading light of the Lagonda Club and co-author of the club's technical guide to this model, he has researched the car's history painstakingly over his nearly 30 years of ownership, contacting all known owners and investigating the histories of all other early M45s in great detail. While in his ownership great care has been taken to preserve the car's originality, thus ensuring it remains in first class mechanical order. As such, mechanical work while in his ownership has included a new cylinder block (original offered with the car); new timing gears and chain; and a new hood, while servicing has been undertaken on a meticulous basis over the course of each year. During 2023 a complete engine rebuild was undertaking by respected specialists Formhalls; the car has been used sparingly since then.

During the current long term ownership 'AUL' has proved a hugely enjoyable car for tours and rallies and with its combination of effortless performance, elegant looks and superb originality, will continue this tradition for the fortunate new owner.