Description
The 1935 Lagonda M35 Rapide is a quintessential pre-war British sports car with undeniable charm, embodying Lagonda's refinement and performance between the two world wars. Designed in 1934 and produced briefly in 1935, the M35 Rapide was a short-wheelbase, high-performance version of Lagonda's range of large cars, combining elegant coachwork with a powerful inline six engine. Only about 65 to 81 examples of the 3. 5-litre model were built, which explains the value of the remaining Tourer versions for collectors.
The M35 Rapide was equipped with a 3, 619 cm³ straight-six engine with overhead valves and twin SU carburettors, developing around 100 to 110 bhp. This engine was mounted in a shortened Rapide chassis. The Tourer coachwork offered four open-top seats, with classic pre-war styling and the craftsmanship expected of a high-end British marque. Its performance was respectable for the era: the M35R could reach nearly 145 km/ h in optimal conditions, giving it genuine sporting aptitude on the road. Contemporary road tests praised its aptitude for “long fast trips”, highlighting its lively acceleration and reassuring handling, qualities that set it apart from many luxury tourers of the time.
This Lagonda M35 Rapide Open Tourer Special began life as a M35 Rapide Saloon, first registered on 14 September 1935. Until 1983 it had only three UK owners.
In 1983, it was sold in British Columbia, Canada, and then, in 2002, a recognised vintage car expert in Denmark acquired it and undertook its restoration. As the original coachwork was beyond repair, it was decided to convert it into a M35 Rapide Open Tourer Special.
The coachwork was manufactured by G. P. Panelcraft in the UK and the engine was completely rebuilt by specialist David Wall, also in the UK. An Alvis gearbox was installed, a common modification, as the original Lagonda gearbox was reputed for its unwieldiness.
In 2018, the project changed hands and the final assembly, including new leather upholstery, was completed. The Lagonda was painted in a very dark green of striking effect, almost black in certain light. All final-assembly costs, carefully logged, total nearly €50, 000. This amount does not include engine refurbishment, UK-made bodywork, or prior works.
In 2020, the Lagonda was finally completed and registered. Since 2018, it had belonged to a very conscientious owner, now deceased. He used it for summer getaways and vintage car rallies, and the Lagonda has always performed impeccably.
The Lagonda has just been started again after six months of inactivity and fired up at the first turn of the key. Videos of the Lagonda in operation can be sent on request.
Registered in Denmark (EU) under the reference Lagonda 3½-litre of 1935.
