1939 Lagonda V12 Drophead Coupe - Original factory body

For Sale: 1939 Lagonda V12 Drophead Coupe - A Timeless Masterpiece

- Factory original coachwork with desirable short wheelbase
- Ground-up nut and bolt restoration, fully documented and photographed (includes 6 hardback folders)
- Complete ownership history from new, with original registration still applied
- Fully serviced by marque experts, ready for 2025 touring
- Exquisitely trimmed in new Connolly leather, with all-new Wilton carpets and matching hood bag
- A true masterpiece by W. O. Bentley

This stunning factory-bodied Drophead Coupe, chassis number 14092, was first registered on June 12th, 1939, to Mr. A. C. W. Norman of Montague St, London W1. Built on the highly desirable short wheelbase (10ft 4in), this classic beauty has a captivating history worth exploring.

In November 1945, the car was purchased by its second owner, Mr. Withair of Cheyne Place, London SW3, and was lovingly maintained by Davies Motors of Staines until 1952. Following its time there, the V12 journeyed to Bognor Regis and Middleton-on-Sea before being acquired by the Hollinshead family, who stored it in a barn for forty years.

When Alfred Hill MBE purchased the Lagonda, it arrived still covered in protective wax and soon underwent a comprehensive disassembly for restoration. Every element of the chassis was meticulously addressed, with a complete engine overhaul featuring new parts such as a crankshaft, con-rods, forged pistons, camshafts, valves, and more. The G10 four-speed manual gearbox was rejuvenated, and the suspension received extensive attention. Brake components, wiring, and various ancillaries were also restored to ensure top-notch performance.

With numerous photos documenting the restoration process, including the repair of the ash frame and a return to the aluminum bodywork's ex-Works condition, no detail was overlooked. The car received a bare metal respray, and the brightwork was refinished by S&T Electro-Plate.

Since the completion of its restoration, this example has experienced only light use. Acquired by me in 2023, I promptly sent it to an award-winning workshop for a comprehensive mechanical shake-down and refresh, preparing it for European touring at an investment of over £26, 000.

Additional enhancements included fitting headlamp protectors, polishing the wheel trims to a stunning finish, and a complete interior retrim in exquisite Connolly leather paired with new Wilton carpets. A brand-new hood bag in matching dark blue mohair was also made.

In total, my investment in this extraordinary project amounts to £67, 000, with all invoices and photographs available for review.

This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history — W. O. Bentley's masterpiece. Any inspection is warmly welcomed. Don’t miss the chance to make this extraordinary Lagonda V12 Drophead Coupe part of your collection!