Often regarded as the finest of W.O.Bentley’s efforts, the Lagonda V12 was by far the standout British model of its day, seated firmly in an exclusive club of 1930s road cars that could exceed 100mph in standard tune.

Launched in 1936 at the Olympia Motor Show, the new V12 was the ultimate expression of a talented group of young designers of the era, with a simple design ethos; sports car pace and performance with limousine comfort.

The fabulous V12, inspired by contemporary aero engines, featured twin-overhead camshafts (one per bank), twin SU carburettors, a combined duplex-chain / gear-driven timing system and a Lanchester-type vibration damper.

The 4.5-litre unit could deliver an ample 180bhp at 5,500rpm, driven through a sporty, centrally-mounted, four-speed manual gearbox and conventional pedal layout.

Deliveries did not commence until 1938, with a mere 189 chassis being fully-clothed before the commencement of World War Two ended production.

The advanced chassis employed d...