1937 | Lagonda 4.5 Litre LG 45 Sports Tourer

Sold | £50,600 GBP

• Fascinating known ownership history since new
• Originally delivered to noted shipping scion Basil, later Lord Sanderson
• Custom bodywork with a fascinating top design
• Retains its matching-numbers engine; handsome appearance throughout

Please note this car is offered without registration papers, bidders should satisfy themselves as to registration requirements in their own jurisdiction.


According to correspondence from the Lagonda Club, LG45 chassis number 12177/G10/L was purchased new as a chassis by Basil Sanderson, later created Lord Sanderson of Ayot, of Welwyn, Hertford. Mr Sanderson was involved in the shipping business, born to a managing director of the White Star Line and having married the daughter of another, J Bruce Ismay. He eventually served as a director of numerous companies. He sent the Lagonda chassis to Salmons & Sons for bodywork to its Tickford patents, complete with fixed window frames and a drophead operated in semi-automatic fashion by a crank handle inserted into the body. Such was the success of the Tickford top design that its patents were later studied by the Ford Motor Company when developing the Mustang.

The LG45 remained with its original titled owner until January 1969, after which it passed briefly through the hands of C G Ryan to Lowell Levinger of California. It was acquired from Levinger in 1976 by M Jamar of Skokie, Illinois, then resided in The Blackhawk Collection before being returned to the United Kingdom through the auspices of Robert Crystal. It is believed to have passed from its new British owner, John R Brown of Newbury, Berkshire, to The Boland Collection some years ago.

Its interior is nicely appointed for summer use, with broadcloth covers in the driver’s compartment, and what appears to be the original, well-loved hides in the rear, including a pair of folding jump seats. Throughout is a fine level of craftsmanship, evident not only in the Tickford design but in the fashioning of the upholstery and wood and ivory hardware. The black and buff colour scheme nicely show off the lines of the body, adding a bit of sporting flair appropriate to the Lagonda chassis. Indeed, this would be a wonderful selection for the Lagonda enthusiast who seeks to tour with the family, as it offers considerably more weather protection and comforts than the common tourers.

A much-enjoyed member of The Boland Collection, this LG45 is a Lagonda for the connoisseur’s choice.

Please note this lot has entered the UK on a temporary import bond, which must be cancelled either by exporting the lot outside of the UK on an approved Bill of Lading with supporting customs documentation or by paying the applicable VAT and import duties to have the lot remain in the UK.


To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/ch25/.