Best Car Reviews - 1989 Aston Martin Lagonda

Introduction

The 1989 Aston Martin Lagonda represents one of the most unique entries in the luxury subcompact car segment. Released as the epitome of automotive innovation at the time, it was designed for the discerning driver looking for an aura of exclusivity and sophistication. The Lagonda stands out due to its futuristic design and innovative electronic systems, which were groundbreaking in the automotive world during the late 1980s.

Design and Exterior Features

The Aston Martin Lagonda is a visually striking vehicle, featuring a long, low, and wide stance that commands attention on the road. The car's design is characterized by sharp angles and a linear aesthetic that was ahead of its time. This distinctive look was not just about style, but also aerodynamics, making it a car of substance.

• Sleek, low-profile design
• Distinctive sharp angles and linear aesthetics
• 20-foot-long body, contributing to its road presence
• Pop-up headlights adding a retro-futuristic touch
• Unique grille and badge design that is synonymous with the Aston Martin brand

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Lagonda, luxury takes center stage. The cabin is spacious for a subcompact car, providing ample room for passengers while surrounding them in high-quality materials and craftsmanship. It combines old-world elegance with a touch of modernity, offering both comfort and style.

• High-quality leather upholstery and wood trim
• Advanced digital dashboard with LED displays
• Spacious interior with comfortable seating for four passengers
• Automatic climate control for passenger convenience
• Ample legroom and headroom due to elongated design

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Lagonda features a robust 8-cylinder GUZZLER engine paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission and a rear-wheel-drive configuration. While its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes about 8.8 seconds, the real joy is in its cruising capability and smoothness.

Driving the Lagonda is a luxurious experience, more suited for grand touring. In city conditions, it demonstrates commendable maneuverability, whereas on highways, it shows off its real prowess as a comfortable cruiser. However, its fuel efficiency, at approximately 14.3 l/100 km, may not impress those looking for an economical ride.

• Efficient cruising on highways
• Smooth handling with precise steering
• A pleasurable drive with minimal road noise
• Stable during long journeys, offering comfort over performance
• Higher fuel consumption compared to modern standards

Technology and Connectivity

The technology in the 1989 model year is quite innovative for its time, although basic by today's standards. It incorporated digital displays and a touch-panel on the dashboard - a novelty back then. Aston Martin strove to provide cutting-edge technology, offering features that hinted at the potential of today's digital interfaces.

• Digital dashboard with LED displays for speed and RPM
• Innovative touch-panel control
• Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player
• Limited driver assistance features
• Cutting-edge for its time but lacks modern connectivity like Bluetooth or GPS

Safety Features

Safety was paramount in the design of the Lagonda, and while it lacks many modern safety technologies, it was fitted with the best features of its era.

• Robust build quality with crumple zones
• Advanced braking system for its time
• Limited data on crash test ratings, indicative of the era
• Dual airbags (driver and passenger)
• Reinforced side impact protection

Pricing and Variants

The 1989 Aston Martin Lagonda originally left showrooms with a high price tag, justifiable by its design and the nameplate's legacy. Pricing compared to competitors positioned it as a premium choice for those willing to seek out exclusivity.

• Initial price tag around $150,000 USD
• Available as a single fully-loaded trim
• Higher price compared to other subcompact luxury cars of its time

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Luxurious interior with quality materials
• Unique and eye-catching design
• Cutting-edge technology for its time
• Comfortable and smooth highway drive
• Exclusivity and status symbol

Cons

• Low fuel efficiency
• High maintenance costs
• Outdated tech compared to today's standards
• Limited passenger space for subcompact class
• Lacks modern safety features

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning an Aston Martin Lagonda means committing to regular checks and potential repairs that can be costly. The maintenance expenses are typically high due to the luxury components and the age of the vehicle.

• High annual maintenance cost, often exceeding $2,000 USD
• Electronic system reliability issues
• Potential for engine overheating
• Suspension wear due to complex design
• Expensive replacement parts

Rating

Overall Rating: 7/10

• Design: 9/10
• Comfort: 8/10
• Performance: 7/10
• Technology: 5/10
• Safety: 6/10

User Reviews and Feedback

1. "The Lagonda is an absolute head-turner; every drive feels like a special occasion."
2. "Expensive to maintain, yet there’s a rewarding charm in its uniqueness."
3. "The tech was way ahead for '89, though a bit wonky today."
4. "Comfortable, but wish it offered better fuel efficiency."
5. "I love its look—the Lagonda’s design is timeless despite its quirks."

Best Cars in This Category

• 1989 Jaguar XJ6
• 1989 BMW E30
• 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E
• 1989 Porsche 944
• 1989 Audi 90

Summary

The 1989 Aston Martin Lagonda is best suited for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its groundbreaking design and technological aspirations of the time. While its maintenance can be costly and its technology outdated, the Lagonda offers unparalleled luxury and exclusivity, making it an attractive proposition for those prioritizing style and heritage over modern conveniences.