Le Mans classic sets world price record

Historical racer makes shedloads more than estimate

By PH Staff / Monday, 1 August 2005 / Loading comments

Lagonda M45

Last Wednesday, H&H set a new world record for an M45 Lagonda and a new outright house record by selling a 1934 Le Mans M45 Team Car for £430,000 (including buyer's premium) -- 53 per cent over the estimate.

The Lagonda's impeccable history included a placing in the 1934 Ards TT in the hands of onetime World Land Speed Record holder John Cobb. The following year it contested the Le Mans 24 race in the hands of Dr J.D. Benjafield and Sir Roland Gunter -- a race won outright by its sister car.

This wonderful example of motoring history had only had four custodians in the last 50 years and was offered in remarkably original condition. The opportunities to purchase such automotive gems are few and far between and the packed hall took on an air of expectancy as auctioneer Simon Hope announced Lot 59. Aware they were witnessing something very special, many of the audience were standing by the time the hammer finally fell and applause broke out around the room.