Barn Find Lagonda Could Fetch Six Figures at Restoration Show Sale

IT might not look much, but this extremely rare 1939 Lagonda V12 Hooper two door saloon that has covered just 40,000 miles from new and, crucially, has been estimated to fetch between £75,000 and £100,000 at the forthcoming Restoration Show Sale, at the NEC, Birmingham on April 12th.

The unique car was built for the wife of the owner of Hooper Bodies Ltd, the most noted coach builder of the era, and first registered in August 1939. With the onset of war just weeks later the car was placed into storage before being sold to a Mr Harry Ellard in 1952.

A highly successful Midlands engineer, Ellard built up a stunning collection of around 40 cars of which this was the centrepiece. Reportedly the largest collection of Lagondas, Ellard owned another five models. Following his death, his famous collection was sold at auction in 1984 with this car taking pride of place on the front cover of the catalogue. The next owner enjoyed the car until 2001 when it changed hands once again. Now offered for auction having been in storage for 13 years, the car requires a complete restoration.

Commenting on the car, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: “We’re very proud to play a part in the car’s unique history. Lagonda was one of Britain’s finest luxury marques and this model’s fascinating history is sure to raise the interest of potential owners.”

Whale added: “For those looking for a one-off restoration project or rare pre-war model, this car will certainly be of interest.”

By Press Association reporters