Lagonda Rapide
| Lagonda Rapide | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Aston Martin |
| Production | 1961–1964 55 produced |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Luxury grand tourer (F) |
| Body style | 4-door saloon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Aston Martin DB4 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 4.0 L DOHC I6 |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Aston Martin Lagonda |
The Lagonda Rapide is a hand built four-door GT car which was produced from 1961 until 1964.
Based on the Aston Martin DB4, it was David Brown's attempt to revive the Lagonda marque which he had purchased in 1948. It marked a revival of the Rapide model name which had been used by Lagonda during the 1930s. The car featured DB4 rear end styling and a horse collar Lagonda grille a little similar to Ford's Edsel, .
The Rapide used a 4.0 L straight-6 six cylinder double overhead camshaft engine, which would later be used in the Aston Martin DB5. Other new features included a de Dion tube rear suspension which would find its way into the Aston Martin DBS.
The car had dual circuit, servo-assisted disc brakes, and most cars were supplied with a 3-speed automatic B & W gearbox. The exterior body panels were constructed from aluminium alloy over a Superleggera tubular steel frame. The interior was upholstered in leather and had a burled walnut dashboard.
The car was hand-built to order only, and cost a base price of £4,950 (£90,000 in 2009-2015 money - US$143,000). However, 55 vehicles were produced, of which about 48 are known today.
The Shooting Brake was a one-off 2005/2006 conversion by "the Carrosserie Company Ltd." of Barnard Castle, England.
Lagonda Rapide Shooting Brake (front)
Lagonda Rapide Shooting Brake (rear)
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Wikipedia