Lanchester Fourteen classic cars for sale

Introduction and History of the Lanchester Fourteen

The Lanchester Fourteen Roadrider debuted in September 1936 as Lanchester's answer to refined yet affordable motoring. Marking a shift for the company, this model adopted the 'Roadrider' moniker to highlight its advanced suspension technology, which was at the time a notable selling point. By utilising the robust chassis and body of the Lanchester Eleven yet upping performance with a larger six-cylinder engine, the Fourteen replaced the older Light Six, delivering comfort and performance at a relatively entry-level price for the marque. This focus on combining traditional craftsmanship with technical progression reflects Lanchester's commitment to precision engineering and innovative British automotive design.

Model History

The Fourteen occupies an important chapter in Lanchester’s lineage, effectively bridging the era between the outgoing Twelve and Light Six models and the later post-war Lanchesters. Offering a larger engine within the proven Eleven chassis, the Fourteen was engineered primarily for the British domestic market, and it remained in production into the years immediately preceding World War II. Its availability as both a saloon and a limousine made it versatile for private and chauffeured motoring alike. Documentation and advertising materials from its era further underscore the Fourteen’s reputation for reliability and period-correct engineering solutions.

Highlights of the Lanchester Fourteen

Defining features of the Lanchester Fourteen include its characterful six-cylinder engine, original Roadrider suspension setup, and period-correct Shifting mechanism, which ensures authentic driving pleasure. Collectors appreciate its unique patina—genuine traces of history visible in both bodywork and leather—that speaks to honest preservation. The availability of comprehensive period documentation and historic advertising flyers often accompanies surviving models, making provenance tracking more straightforward for dedicated collectors.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Within the available history and documentation, there are references to special roadgoing saloon and chauffeur-driven limousine variants of the Fourteen, occasionally outfitted with bespoke trim and accessories for private customers. Limited survivor numbers and the presence of rare colour/trim combinations are typical distinguishing features, though factory-announced limited editions are not documented.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Wear and age-related marks are to be expected given the Fourteen's era. Mechanically, the cold-start mechanism is a known component requiring periodic overhaul, a quirk often documented in restoration files. Access to original handbooks and parts lists aids reliable upkeep, while typical running gear refurbishments and suspension attention are standard for vehicles of this vintage. Full historical documentation, including restoration invoices, adds valuable transparency for prospective owners.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Powered by a larger capacity six-cylinder engine compared to its predecessor, the Fourteen delivers smooth running and flexible power delivery through a well-engineered manual transmission system. Drivers find its shifting mechanism robust ('schaltet gut'), while the Roadrider suspension lives up to its billing, providing a comfortable, composed ride across a range of conditions. Steering and refinement are attuned to the expectations of prewar British luxury cars, with careful setup crucial for optimal enjoyment. - Lanchester Fourteen Saloon: Standard variant, notable for its period-correct mechanicals and colour combinations.

• Lanchester Fourteen Limousine: Rare longer-body version, occasionally specified for chauffeured motoring.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Lanchester Fourteen’s interior offers classic British opulence, commonly featuring red leather upholstery that contrasts beautifully with black or other deep-hued exteriors. Chrome trim and original wood veneers are prevalent. Accessories and original fittings, like handbooks, advertising flyers, and badges, offer additional authenticity. The exterior keeps to elegant lines typical of prewar British saloons, with enduring paintwork and finishing patina considered highly desirable among enthusiasts. Bespoke versions might showcase unique colour schemes or special order trimmings native to the period.

Other Notable Features

Ownership transfer for the Lanchester Fourteen is straightforward: English registration documents are standard, and for international owners, export papers and short-term insurances are readily arranged. Sought-after vehicles often have a complete set of historical documents, simplifying provenance research and enhancing collectability.

Summary

The Lanchester Fourteen combines evocative prewar British engineering with tangible historical authenticity, as evidenced by preserved interiors, period documentation, and a focus on driver engagement. Its rare presence on the market, with comprehensive supply matched by strong interest, makes the Fourteen the defining classic among Lanchester vehicles for serious collectors of British motoring heritage.