The Lagonda car company, founded in 1906 by the visionary American entrepreneur Wilbur Gunn, has left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Gunn’s inspiration for the name “Lagonda” came from a river near his hometown of Springfield, Ohio, a nod to his roots and a symbol of his aspirations. The company’s journey began with Gunn’s success in building motorcycles in the garden of his Staines residence, culminating in notable achievements such as winning the 1905 London to Edinburgh Trial.
In 1907, Lagonda expanded its horizons by introducing its first car, laying the foundation for what would become a storied automotive legacy. By 1910, Lagonda had already established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the automotive world, triumphing in prestigious events like the Moscow to St Petersburg Trial with its 16/18hp model. This early success solidified Lagonda’s reputation for engineering excellence and performance.
The 14/60 represented a departure from Lagonda’s earlier emphasis on light cars, signaling a bold move towards more upscale offerings. With its four-cylinder, 2.0-litre engine, it combined power with elegance, catering to the discerning tastes of affluent buyers.
Lagonda’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation was evident in every aspect of the 14/60’s design and engineering, setting a new standard for sporting and luxury vehicles of the era. This strategic shift laid the foundation for Lagonda’s future success in the high-end automotive market, solidifying its reputation as a producer of fine automobiles.
In 1929, Lagonda further expanded its offerings with the introduction of the 3-Litre, heralding the company’s entry into the realm of six-cylinder models. Despite this expansion, Lagonda’s direction shifted towards Meadows-engined cars by the mid-1930s, reflecting the company’s evolving priorities and market demands.
The unveiling of the M45 at the 1933 Olympia Show represented a watershed moment for Lagonda. Building on the success of the preceding ZM 3-Litre model, the M45 featured Meadows’ 4½-litre, twin-plug six-cylinder engine, setting new standards for performance and innovation. This powerful engine propelled saloons to speeds of 90mph and enabled tourers to achieve ‘the ton’ under favorable conditions, cementing Lagonda’s reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance, luxury automobiles.
In conclusion, Lagonda’s journey from its humble beginnings in Staines to its status as a renowned automotive marque is a testament to the vision and ingenuity of Wilbur Gunn and the company’s founders. Through a commitment to excellence, innovation, and performance, Lagonda has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
