Lagonda Rapide classic cars for sale
The Lagonda Rapide is a rare, handcrafted four-door grand tourer produced by Aston Martin under the Lagonda name between 1961 and 1964. Combining British engineering finesse with exclusive luxury, the Rapide stands out for its refined details, V8 performance, and low production numbers.
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Create listingLagonda Rapide listing references from Classic Trader
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1963 | Lagonda Rapide
Believed Built for David Brown himself - Project
1963 | Lagonda Rapide
Aston Martin Lagonda - Ultra Rare - Fabulous Design - Recommission Required
1962 | Lagonda Rapide
David Brown's Brilliant Vision - Superlegera
1962 | Lagonda Rapide
One of Only 47 in The World - Needs Recommission
1963 | Lagonda Rapide
Aston Martin Lagonda Rapide
1964 | Lagonda Rapide
1964 | Lagonda Rapide
Lagonda Rapide
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Create listingThe history of the Lagonda Rapide
The Lagonda Rapide was introduced in 1961 by Aston Martin, carrying the Lagonda badge as a nod to an illustrious heritage of British automotive craftsmanship. Designed as a luxury four-door grand tourer, the Rapide offered a new proposition to the small but discerning market that sought exclusivity and comfort in a full-sized car. In an era dominated by two-door coupes, Aston Martin revived the Lagonda marque with the Rapide, aiming it at customers who valued traditional coachbuilt luxury and sophisticated engineering. Its production run was brief, lasting until 1964, cementing its status as one of the rarest and most refined classics from the period.
Model history
The Rapide was the first postwar Lagonda to wear the badge since the marque was acquired by Aston Martin. It was developed as a four-door companion to the Aston Martin DB4 and shared much of its engineering, including the alloy straight-six engine. With only around 55 units produced across its run, there was no direct predecessor in the postwar era, and its successor would not appear until more than a decade later with the very different Lagonda Series 2 in the mid-1970s.
Highlights and distinctive features
Each Lagonda Rapide was individually handbuilt, featuring a lightweight aluminium body and a chassis derived from the contemporary Aston Martin DB4. The car was equipped with a 4.0-litre inline-six engine, automatic transmission as standard (with manual as an option), and advanced suspension with a De Dion rear axle, all contributing to a high level of comfort and progressive road behaviour for the era. The interior featured bespoke wood and leatherwork, as expected from a British luxury car.
Technical data
Special editions and collectible variants
Due to its extremely limited production—estimated at fewer than 60 units—every Lagonda Rapide carries collectible status. There are no widely acknowledged factory 'special editions,' but provenance, originality, and restoration quality are key differentiators for collectors.
Weak spots and common issues
Due to the limited production and handbuilt construction, parts can be difficult to source and restoration expertise is essential. Owners should pay special attention to the aluminium bodywork, which is prone to corrosion if neglected. The De Dion rear suspension and its bushings require regular maintenance, and the sophisticated interior can be expensive to restore with authentic materials.
Engine, transmission, and handling
Beneath the elegant lines, the Rapide hides a 4.0-litre inline-six and period-advanced De Dion rear suspension, offering a refined driving experience with genuine Grand Touring character. While its size doesn’t lend itself to nimble handling, the car's sophisticated chassis and weight distribution result in surprising poise on the road.
Popular variant technical highlight:
- Lagonda Rapide: 4.0-litre straight-six, ~236 bhp, automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, De Dion rear axle. undefined
Interior, comfort, exterior and design
The car’s body was designed by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, Italy, distinguished by clean, understated lines and finely balanced proportions. The aluminium panels kept weight in check. Inside, the Rapide embraced British luxury: Connolly leather, burled wood veneers, carefully upholstered seats, and plush carpeting. Exterior details included dual headlamps, subtle chrome accents, and a dignified Lagonda grille. Factory options encompassed special paint colours, individual trim choices, and high-end accessories, tailored for each discerning owner.
Other features
The Lagonda Rapide represented Aston Martin’s ambition to compete with the top tier of luxury GT manufacturers, fusing sporting heritage with the comfort-focused ethos of the British upper class motorcar tradition.
Summary
Owning a Lagonda Rapide means possessing a unique blend of hand-built British luxury and Aston Martin technology, produced in very small numbers for demanding clients. Its rarity, period engineering, and coachbuilt elegance make it an exceptional cornerstone in British motoring history.