*
UK V5
See UK Registration/Import Status Guide in catalogue.

In 1933, Lagonda debuted its M45 model; the Meadows-designed 4 1/2-litre straightsix engine was applied to the lightweight 3-litre chassis, making it a formidable, dynamic car. According to its extensive history file, this M45, registered “AEL 30,” and carrying factory pillarless saloon coachwork, was first sold in Bournemouth, to Mr. Beechey-Newman, a resident of Northampton. Later, after passing through various UK-based owners over the ensuing decades, it was purchased by respected Lagonda club member Herb Schofield in 1983. Preserved in his care, the M45 received thoughtful mechanical work and coachwork substructure repairs, while carefully retaining the originality and overall presentation of the Lagonda.

In 1992, the Lagonda was acquired by collector Alan Whitehead of Bolton, Lancashire, and it remained with him for over 30 years. Confirmed by a volume of invoices, Mr. Whitehead had considerable restoration work performed, but the car has not lost its original essence. This is especially evident in the splendid pattern of its oxblood leather hides. In 2004, the Lagonda’s engine was rebuilt and, during his tenure, Mr. Whitehead participated in numerous club rallies, and the car earned awards at various concours. In early 2023, AEL 30 was acquired by the consignor, a highly respected UK-based collector with a stable with some of the finest prewar motorcars. He drove it spiritedly on a recent rally to Yorkshire, which reinforced his confidence in the Saloon’s abilities and reliability. AEL 30 includes a bootlid-mounted tool set, manuals, a copy of its build record, and its superb history file, which ably brings this splendid Lagonda’s previous existence to life.