Aston Martin Lagonda

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Lagonda

Aston Martin Lagonda

1976 - 1986
Country:
United Kingdom
Engine:
V8
Capacity:
6276 cc
Power:
330 bhp
Transmission:
3 spd. auto
Top Speed:
209 km/h
Number Built:
320
Collectability:
4 star
Aston Martin Lagonda
The 1976 showing of the Lagonda saloon showed the world a car that appeared to have originated from another planet. The William Towns Lagonda V8 shocked the world with its bold design and electronic instrumentation.

A truly stunning design, it was not released until some three years later due to problems with its high-tech electronics. It had an ambitious digital dash with touch-sensitive controls, but in reliability terms, these concepts had to be eased somewhat for production purposes.

The Lagonda was viewed essentially as a stretch version of the Aston Martin V8 and housed a strong four-camshaft 5.3 liter V8 motor. It used the same suspension system as well as self-levelling for the De Dion rear.

Weighing almost 2 tons it was seen as the heaviest and openly luxurious Lagonda since the war with air-conditioning and electric seats being part of the price.

The critics praised its handling and ride, but criticised its lack of rear legroom and the fact that it could have been quicker off the mark. Aston countered these critics with a twin-turbo version with Tickford releasing a stretch version offering twin color TV's.

The first Lagonda V8 was delivered on April 24, 1978. It was not until 1984 however that the Lagonda V8 arrived for sale in the United States. Each car required about 2,200 man-hours and only about 25 were built per year for the U.S. market.

The Lagonda is a perfect fusion of state-of-the-art high technology and the traditional coachbuilding skills which have made Aston Martin famous. The fuel injected 5.3 liter engine takes the Lagonda up to speeds of almost 150 mph. Speed, engine revs, fuel level and water temperature register on the now famous vaccum fluorescent instrumentation.

Inside, the subtle aroma of Connolly hide is complemented by the polished walnut cappings and soft Wilton carpeting. The Lagonda - a true supercar reflecting a distinguished heritage. The car stopped being produced in 1990 with just 645 being sold. There was rumored to be a replacement, but new owners Ford decided that Aston should stick to what they know best - building Aston Martin's.

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Also see:


Aston Martin Heritage
Lost Marques: Lagonda
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