Introduced at the 1933 Olympia Motor Show, the Lagonda Rapier was intended to capitalise on the growing market for small capacity sports cars.

The work of consultant Thomas 'Tim' Ashcroft, the newcomer’s 1104cc four-cylinder engine utilised twin overhead camshafts to produce a class-leading 50bhp @ 5,400rpm.

Praised by the contemporary motoring press for its performance, refinement and agility, the model was supplied in bare chassis guise only and bodied via the likes of E.D.

Abbott, John Charles, Maltby and E.J.

Newns.

The Lagonda Club estimates that just 69 of the 376 Rapiers made have survived to the present day.

First registered in London (or so its ‘BLY 131’ number plate would imply), chassis D10981 was taken off the road during 1973 pending a restoration that has yet to happen.

Partially disassembled by the vendor since its acquisition twelve years ago, the Lagonda lacks carburettors but otherwise appears to be substantially complete.

The engine has been stripped and show...