Aston Martin One-Off

Information

The Lagonda MP/230/1, created in 1969, was a unique prototype developed as a four-door saloon based on the Aston Martin DBS V8. It marked the first use of the Lagonda name since 1964. Designed by William Towns, the car featured a 305mm (12-inch) longer wheelbase than the DBS V8 and shared its engine and running gear. Distinctive design elements included a four-headlamp front end (unlike the two on later production models) and a unique boot lid integrated with the rear panel for easier loading.

Originally finished in Sir David Brown’s favored Roman Purple with crimson velour upholstery, the car was later repainted metallic blue and retrimmed in blue leather. The initial 5.0-liter fuel-injected V8 was soon replaced with an early 5.3-liter carbureted engine, which remains in the car.

Used personally by Sir David Brown, the MP/230/1 preceded a very limited production run: only seven examples were built between 1974 and 1976, plus one additional car later. At launch, the Lagonda was priced at £14,040—24% more than the standard V8—making it one of the most expensive British cars of its time.

A notable anecdote from Dudley Gershon, the engineering director, reveals a last-minute decision to badge the car as a Lagonda rather than an Aston Martin, defying executive orders—an act that received widespread praise. The MP/230/1 remains a rare and significant piece of Aston Martin and Lagonda history.