The Classic DB Lagonda
Blue Monster
The car was designed by Frank Feeley using the DB 2.6 chassis, and for a late 1940's car design it was very advanced, clearly taking onboard American design and styling. The rear of the car has design hints and queue's of the DB 3.0 litre which would follow in late 1953. The car was constructed in-house , no doubt using Staines Lagonda people, for the body and interior trimming as well. The car was made in late 1949 through to early 1950; registration number is WMF 190 and original engine number of LB6A/50/220.
Much of the cars early history is currently unknown, along with its purpose,. What is known is that is was used as personal transport by Professor Eberan von Eberhorst, Aston Martin's chief technical engineer, until at least the end of 1952, and several period pictures are shown below.
DP 111 "Blue Monster 2.6 litre engined car, sold at Bonham's and Brooks, Newport Pagnell sale of 12th May 2001, lot 166 and sold for £15,500. This car is LAG/50/114 in terms of correct chassis number. The car appeared in poor condition, and this factory prototype, had been converted to a coupe at some stage. Now part-restored back to drophead, the bodyworkl was rubbed down and unpainted, it was incomplete, with a distressed interior. No other pictures at this time, and I would greatly appreciate more, or being put in contact with current owner.
Checking DVLA records show that this car has not been taxed for road use since 1988, so possibly held on a SORN and in a garage or barn somewhere, what a shame !
A copiy of the scans taken of the 24 May 1989 catalogue,where the Blue Monster previously apperared is shown with thanks to Mr. A. Bowen. There were 43 vehicles including some buses, commercial vehicles and a trailer in the sale, mostly all in need of restoration, as well as some general automobile, sundries and parts particularly for Austin 7s.
As can be seen in the picture (which is a poor reproduction on the original as well) and in the description WMF190 was in coupe form with roof. The condition of the car was fairly rough, and as stated in the catalogue "In need of complete restoration" which was correct, and I scribbled a couple of comments at the time like "lot of work", "fast back shape", "needs interior, some exterior work where steel", "engine needs re-build".
The spare engine mentioned was a 3L VB6A/50/534.
The final price paid was reportedly £20k and they did not charge any purchaser commission.
This adds another .part to the cars history. Sadly, still unrestored and garage stored in July 2018.