In Brief

  • One of 8 remaining examples.
  • Four Owners since new
  • Comprehensive History File
  • Finished in dark blue over grey leather

On the Surface:

Finished in striking Lagonda Dark Blue (LAG/50/503), this 1953 Lagonda 3 Litre Tickford Drophead Coupe presents beautifully, with a refined grey leather interior piped in blue, paired with a matching soft top and hood cover. The overall condition is excellent, showcasing the elegance and craftsmanship expected from this rare British classic. It exudes the understated grandeur for which Lagonda was renowned—“beauty of line, power and grace,” as the original sales brochure so aptly stated.

 

Maintenance:

This example has recently benefitted from a comprehensive restoration totalling approximately £30,000, which included the fitment of a brand new soft top. The vehicle has been maintained to a very high standard throughout its life, with previous MOT certificates and owner correspondence supporting the believed-correct mileage of 38,400 miles. The car is both MOT and Tax exempt, and comes with a history file containing numerous invoices, documents, and original handwritten letters—evidence of careful stewardship over the decades.

History:

Originally supplied by Brooklands of Bond Street to Mr C. Volz of Putney, the car was subsequently sold back to Brooklands before being acquired by Mr Peter Brunner of London, whose original bill of sale (showing a purchase price of £705) remains in the history folder. Upon Mr Brunner’s passing in 1966, the car passed to Mrs Brunner, who retained ownership until the 1990s. One further custodian followed before the current vendor acquired the car, using it for touring and club events. The car comes with a valuable and transferable registration number, and has had only four owners in total—two of whom were well-known figures.

The Model:

The Lagonda 3 Litre Drophead Coupe, bodied by Tickford of Newport Pagnell, is a rare and elegant post-war grand tourer. With its cruciform-braced chassis and fully independent suspension, it offered advanced engineering for its time. Powered by a 140bhp engine, the car was capable of speeds exceeding 100mph. Only around eight examples of the Tickford Drophead Coupe are believed to remain, making this a highly desirable collector’s piece. Interior features include beautifully crafted walnut trim, leather upholstery, and top-tier fittings.

Sale Insight:

This is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the few surviving Lagonda 3 Litre Tickford Drophead Coupes—an example with compelling provenance, low mileage, and a comprehensive history file. Its condition, rarity, and elegance are matched by its cultural appeal, having been favoured by figures such as the late HRH Duke of Edinburgh and actor Peter Ustinov. Suitable for concours display or refined touring, this Lagonda offers distinguished motoring with genuine pedigree.

Estimate:
£45,000 - £60,000

Key Facts


  • Lot 75

  • Thursday 31st July 25

  • LAGONDA 3 LITRE TICKFORD DROPHEAD COUPE

  • 2922

  • 38,400 Miles

  • NYU820

  • November 1953


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July 25

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Featured Lot

Summer Classic & Performance Auction

Thursday 31st July 25 at 10:00

Viewing Dates:

Saturday 26th July: 9am-11:30am
Monday 28th July: 8am-3:30am 
Tuesday 29th July: 8am-3:30pm
Wednesday 30th July: 8am-3:30pm

Earlier viewing dates available upon request

FREE ENTRIES CLOSE: 04/07/2025

PAID ENTRY WINDOW: 05/07/2025-14/07/2025