Lagonda V12 Rapide
- Production 1938–1940 (189 produced)
- Engine Specifications:………4480 cc single overhead cam V12
In 1935, the Lagonda company was bought by Alan P. Good. He persuaded W. O. Bentley to leave Rolls-Royce and join Lagonda as designer along with many of his racing department staff. Bentley’s masterpiece the V12 was launched in 1937. The 4480-cc engine delivered 180 bhp and was said to be capable of going from 7 to 105 mph in top gear and to rev to 5000 rpm. The car was exhibited at the 1939 New York Motor Show: “The highest price car in the show this year is tagged $8,900. It is a Lagonda, known as the “Rapide” model, imported from England. The power plant is a twelve-cylinder V engine developing 200 horsepower.”
