Aston Martin Lagonda Rapide 1961–1964
The Lagonda Rapide is a hand built four-door GT car which was produced from 1961 until 1964.
| Manufacturer | Aston Martin |
|---|---|
| Production | 1961–1964 55 produced |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Luxury grand tourer (F) |
| Body style | 4-door saloon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Aston Martin DB4 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 4.0 L DOHC I6 |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Aston Martin Lagonda |
Description
Based on the Aston Martin DB4, it was David Brown's attempt to revive the Lagonda marque which he had purchased in 1948. It marked a revival of the Rapide model name which had been used by Lagonda during the 1930s. The car featured DB4 rear end styling and a horse collar Lagonda grille a little similar to Ford's Edsel, .
Specifications
The Rapide used a 4.0 L straight-6 six cylinder double overhead camshaft engine, which would later be used in the Aston Martin DB5. Other new features included a de Dion tube rear suspension which would find its way into the Aston Martin DBS.
The car had dual circuit, servo-assisted disc brakes, and most cars were supplied with a 3-speed automatic B & W gearbox. The exterior body panels were constructed from aluminium alloy over a Superleggera tubular steel frame. The interior was upholstered in leather and had a burled walnut dashboard.
Production
The car was hand-built to order only, and cost new a base price of £4,950 (£89,595.50 in today's money - US$143,030.26). However, 55 vehicles were produced, of which about 48 are known today.
Shooting Brake
The Shooting Brake was a one-off 2005/2006 conversion by "the Carrosserie Company Ltd." of Barnard Castle, England.