Description
Lanchester LD 10 – Very Original/ High Specification
Frederick Lanchester designed Britain’s first ever petrol-driven, four-wheeled motor car in 1895 and founded the Lanchester Engine Company in 1899. The company quickly gained a reputation for engineering brilliance and ingenuity that rivalled Rolls Royce. Quality comes at a price and in 1931 Frederick’s no compromise attitude forced the company to be sold to BSA/ Daimler and production finally ceased in 1956
At Milestone Classics we have a soft spot for classic saloons from the 1950’s and the Lanchester really does tick all the boxes.
The LD 10 is a high quality, small saloon produced between 1946 and 1951. Built on a sturdy chassis with aluminium body (by Barkers) the model retained the time-honoured fluid flywheel and Wilson pre-selector transmission with coil spring front independent suspension. The 1. 3 OHV engine delivers just over 40bhp, sufficient to propel the car to a heady 70mph with the passengers enjoying a high level of comfort.
First registered at the Coventry Tax Office the car has had just six previous owners and shows an indicated mileage of 76, 000 which, given the condition of the car, we believe to be correct. The history file contains MOT’s back to 1982, a photocopy of original logbook, driver’s handbook etc. and bills indicating regular maintenance by the last enthusiastic owner.
The Lanchester is the epitome of 1950’s motoring. The pre-selector gearbox/ fluid flywheel combination is wonderful to use & the original interior is like stepping back in time – it feels like you must be in an Agatha Christie novel!
Ready to use and enjoy (the previous owner used the car extensively for TV work earning a lucrative income) the LD 10 is perfect for Classic Car shows, Goodwood Revival or simply a trip out to the pub on a summer's evening.
