In the restrained ambiance of pre-war British saloons, the Lagonda LG45 Rapide stood out with its bold design—courtesy of Frank Feeley, later known for the Aston Martin DB2. Despite Lagonda’s financial struggles before World War II, Alan Good’s intervention saved the company from falling into Rolls-Royce’s hands.
Alan Good’s involvement marked a turning point for Lagonda, injecting fresh energy and vision into the brand. With Dick Watney at the helm, Lagonda underwent a transformation, setting the stage for the development of the LG45 Rapide. Watney, with the keen eye of an enthusiast, envisioned a more spirited version of the LG45, one that would appeal to affluent drivers seeking both performance and luxury.
The result was the Lagonda LG45 Rapide, a car that not only met but exceeded expectations. Frank Feeley, a designer renowned for his work on the Aston Martin DB2, lent his talents to craft the Rapide’s striking exterior. His daring design, characterized by sleek lines and elegant curves, set the Rapide apart from its contemporaries, ensuring it would capture the attention of all who beheld it.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the Lagonda LG45 Rapide boasted impressive engineering and performance capabilities. At its heart was the proven 4,467-cc Meadows engine, upgraded to ‘Sanction 3’ trim by W.O. Bentley himself. Bentley’s influence ensured that the Rapide not only looked the part but also delivered on the road, with improved exhaust and increased compression propelling it past 100 mph—an impressive feat for the era.
Unveiled in September 1936, just six months after Lagonda’s ownership change, the Rapide made an immediate impact on the automotive world. Its short production run of only 25 examples only served to enhance its allure, solidifying its status as a rare and coveted luxury car coveted by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Each of the 25 Lagonda LG45 Rapide models produced was a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of the Lagonda team. From the meticulous attention to detail in Frank Feeley’s design to the precision engineering under the hood, every aspect of the Rapide spoke to Lagonda’s unwavering commitment to excellence, setting a standard that endures in automotive history.
Today, the Lagonda LG45 Rapide remains a highly sought-after collector’s item, prized for its rarity, performance, and timeless elegance. Its legacy lives on as a symbol of pre-war luxury and sophistication, continuing to captivate automotive enthusiasts and historians alike with its enduring charm and historical significance.
