Subject: Re: Lagonda Rapide 61-64 Wanted
Francis,
I'm sorry that your became bored with your DB7 - my 7 Vantage is a constant joy for me (at least, when it's working properly
).
I am very fortunate indeed to own a small number of both pre- and post-war Lagondas, although all of these are projects. One such car is a DB Rapide - we recently acquired it and, indeed, work begins on the full restoration this coming week! It is a manual example that also happens to be one of only two (if that) fitted with a DB4/5 grille (there are in fact 5 different versions of front end of which I am aware, if you count the Touring prototype design).
As you probably know very well, only 55 cars were built. It took me 4 years to acquire my example, after a very kind person (and friend), who is also a member of both this forum and that of the AMOC, gave me a wonderful lead. It really can be a difficult quest, although things do fall out of the sky sometimes - you just need to read Christian's story, as an example of how fortune does sometimes shine. IIRC, there are still about 4 cars that are still unaccounted for.
If you are serious about buying a Rapide right now, you might try contacting this trader:
http://www.romangarage.co.uk. I think that the car he was offering (though it's not depicted on the website) has now been sold but it might be worth a call. Also, re a a search in North America, in addition to Steel Wings you might try also Kevin Kay Restorations in Redding, CA.
In my opinion, these cars are wonderful - so beautiful, rare and interesting. I wish you all the very best with your hunt.
Tim