Aston Martin’s timing for the launch of the Lagonda Series 1 in the 1970s simply couldn’t have been worse. The 7.0-litre saloon was almost one quarter more expensive than its coupe counterparts, and combined with the Middle East Oil Crisis, it was clearly never going to fly off the showroom floors. All-in-all, just seven of these 160 mph luxury saloons ever left the factory, with one later being sanctioned for production. Now, you could be the proud owner of one of the rarest Astons of all, as this 1975 Aston Martin Lagonda Series 1 is set to go under the hammer at Bonhams’ Goodwood Members Meeting Sale on April 10th.
Supposedly born out of Aston Martin owner David Brown’s desire to be chauffeured in a car manufactured by his brand, this Lagonda Series 1 is one of just five with automatic gearboxes. Benefitting from R S Williams’ famous 7.0-litre conversion, this super saloon boasts a hearty 480hp and a whopping 550lb/ft of torque. Compared to the 320hp and 350lb/ft of the 5.3-litre original, that’s a fairly substantial upgrade. Around the time of these performance upgrades, this Lagonda’s chassis was stripped, checked, crack tested, and rebuilt with new bushes and suspension components including up-rated steering, special springs, dampers and brakes. All totally necessary, considering just how potent this Lagonda is.
Given the car’s rarity, performance, and expertly re-trimmed interior, it all combines to form a highly enticing package. However, there is a slight catch: this Lagonda has been on static display since 2012, so it will require some light recommissioning before returning to the road. When it does, though, you’ll have the pleasure of driving one of the most unique Astons ever made, and not to mention one hell of a sleeper too.
