The Lagonda 16/80 was a sports touring car introduced by Lagonda in 1932, replacing the company’s 4-cylinder 2-litre model.
The first part of its name referred to its Fiscal horsepower rating of 16 (actually 15.7). Under naming conventions common at the time, the second number in its name might have referred to the car’s bhp. However, actual power output fell a long way short of 80 bhp, leading one well informed owner to suggest that it may have referred to the car’s claimed top speed of 80 mph (129 km/h).
The car was unusual in being the only Lagonda to be offered with a Crossley engine. However, each engine purchased was stripped down by Lagonda, checked and rebuilt according to their own specifications before becoming the heart of a 16/80. Also, unlike its usual configuration when used in Crossley's own vehicles, it was fitted with twin HV3 type SU carburettors.
In 1933 the option of a E.N.V preselector gear-box became available.
When new the car was guaranteed for nine years. However, a condition of the guarantee was that it be returned to the manufacturers every three years for a thorough overhaul and update, which would have been provided only at considerable cost.
The car was dropped by Lagonda, shortly before the firm's dramatic rescue from financial collapse by Alan Good, at the end of in 1934.
According to the Lagonda Club, 261 were made.
Complete article available at this page.
