1987 Aston Martin Lagonda Saloon

To own a Lagonda is to belong to one of the world’s most exclusive clubs. But for its members this knowledge is but a small part of the intense pleasure derived from its possession. For each one represents the quintessence of 80 years of engineering expertise and craftsmanship.

It is, however, difficult to decide which attracts the greatest attention: the sleek and stylish shape of its body, its brilliantly conceived and superbly crafted interior or its unruffled high performance.

The truth is that, despite its innate luxury, the Lagonda is essentially a performer, a driver’s car par excellence. Which is hardly surprising when you consider that its responsive Aston Martin 5.3-liter V8 engine is capable of propelling the car to an apparently effortless 150 mph. Variable ratio, power-assisted rack and pinion steering and an extremely sophisticated system of independent front and de Dion rear suspension ensure safe, comfortable, high-speed travel along the most winding of roads. Powerful ventilated disc brakes ensure that the stopping ability is a match for the acceleration and road-holding.

Even in town, the rapid and sensitive response of the accelerator makes traffic driving seem almost a pleasure. And on long, straight runs the built-in cruise control maintains the desired speed more accurately than a driver ever could.

Certainly, the Lagonda will turn a thousand heads. But what of the interior that only a very few will ever experience? it is, in the words of one motoring writer, ’staggeringly opulent.’ The distinctive finish and subtle aroma of Connolly hide reigns throughout, complemented – naturally – by the gentle touch of Wilton carpeting.

The level of Lagonda luxury even extends to the leather and English burr walnut of the dashboard and the door trims. (Every potential Lagonda owner will, of course, have his or her own ideas and, as always, our craftsmen and designers will be pleased to discuss these in detail.)

And you would expect, bi-level air conditioning comes as standard. As do various other refinements such as stereo radio and cassette system and the electrically-adjustable front seats. Then there is the now famous instrument display. Flanking the leather-trimmed steering-wheel are no fewer than 20 sensitive switches. And on turning the ignition key, the three screens become an impressive display of illuminated information.

Every function is monitored. From temperatures – inside and out – to trip mileage, battery voltage and many more in between.

The first impression is one of the highest technical sophistication. And yet, as you drive the Lagonda, insulated from the commotion of the outside world, it all seems very simple indeed.

Source – Aston Martin
In October of 1976 Aston Martin introduced the four-door Lagonda at the Earl’s Court Show. The name Lagonda was borrowed from a similar British marque that had a respectable racing tradition and produced low production, exclusive automobiles. Both Aston Martin and Lagonda also shared a similar history of financial difficulties. After World War II, David Brown took control of both Aston Martin and Lagonda and brought these honorable marques under one name. In 1959, the combination was able to capture the World Championship.

The Aston Martin Lagonda was designed by William Towns. It was modern and practical with seating for five and many creature comforts. Production began in 1976 and continued untili 1990 with 645 examples being created. It was the first production automobile in the world to use a digital instrument panel and computer management. Under the hood was a four-cam eight-cylinder engine in ‘Vee’ configuration. A Chrysler 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission sent the power to the rear wheels. Air conditioning, power steering, brakes windows, door locks and a sunroof were all standard equipment.