Aston Martin Lagonda Taraf

The case for the Lagonda Taraf

The Lagonda Taraf is one of the most unusual cars Aston Martin has ever made: a full-size luxury saloon on the VH platform, with carbon-fibre bodywork and a 5.9-litre V12, originally intended only for the Middle East and later offered in other markets. Production was around 120 cars, and the price was approximately £700,000.

The Taraf is a fascinating curiosity: a hyper-expensive luxury saloon from a company known for sports cars, wearing the Lagonda name and a striking, angular design. For collectors of rare Astons, it is one of the most distinctive modern cars the company has produced.

What it costs to run

Underneath the carbon body, the Taraf is a VH-platform Aston, which helps with servicing. The V12 and running gear are familiar to specialists. But the unique carbon bodywork and interior trim mean that any cosmetic or structural repair requires specialist attention at a corresponding price. Insurance and storage are specialist considerations at this value.

Running costs for the mechanicals are similar to other V12 Astons: £1,000 to £1,500 for annual servicing at a specialist.

Known weak points

The Taraf's mechanical package is well proven, but the carbon-fibre body and unique interior present specific risks. Any bodywork damage requires specialist carbon repair. The interior's bespoke materials and switchgear may not be available as off-the-shelf replacements. Many Tarafs have led low-mileage lives, so storage-related issues (battery condition, perished seals, tyre age) are relevant.

There is very little collective owner experience to draw on, so a specialist inspection and factory records are especially important.

What to check before buying

Provenance and documentation first: verify the car's build record and ownership history. Inspect the carbon bodywork carefully for any damage or repairs. Check all electrical systems, and verify that any bespoke interior elements are intact. Confirm service history with Aston Martin or a recognised specialist. Any purchase at this level should involve the factory's own records and a marque specialist.

Market and depreciation

The Taraf's value is driven by rarity and collector interest rather than conventional depreciation. Cars trade privately and at auction, and values are not well documented publicly. The Taraf sold slowly when new and the market remains thin. Specialist advice is essential before any transaction.

Who it suits

The established Aston Martin collector who wants one of the rarest and most unusual cars the company has made. It is a collectible and a talking point rather than a practical luxury saloon.

Alternatives

Rolls-Royce Phantom, Bentley Mulsanne, or other rare coachbuilt saloons such as the Lagonda's spiritual predecessors.

The Lagonda Taraf, launched in 2015, is one of the most exclusive saloons ever built: around 120 were produced, with a price around £700,000 when new. Based on the VH architecture with a 6.0-litre V12, it was conceived primarily for Middle Eastern markets but later offered elsewhere. Its appeal is sheer exclusivity and presence rather than dynamic superiority over more conventional luxury saloons.

Ownership is a specialist undertaking. With such tiny production, parts and expertise are concentrated at Aston Martin Works and a handful of specialists. Any bodywork repair must account for the car's bespoke panels and trim. Provenance documentation is fundamental to value, as is evidence of correct maintenance despite the likelihood of very low mileage.

Values are driven by collector sentiment and the car's rarity, and the market for them is extremely thin. A prospective buyer should work directly with Aston Martin Works or a recognised authority, verify the car's build records and history completely, and approach ownership as stewardship of a rare object. This is not a car for regular use; it is a statement piece and a very specific kind of collectable.

Underneath the bespoke bodywork, the Taraf uses the familiar VH architecture and 6.0-litre V12, so the mechanical fundamentals are well understood by Aston specialists. The driving experience is that of a large, comfortable luxury saloon rather than a sports car, which is exactly as intended. The Taraf was never about dynamic superiority; it is about presence, exclusivity and craftsmanship.

The Lagonda name carries significant history, and the Taraf represented its revival for the modern era. That context matters to collectors: this is not merely an expensive Aston saloon but a Lagonda, with all the heritage that implies. Values reflect the extreme rarity and the car's significance as a modern Lagonda. For the collector seeking one of the rarest modern Astons, the Taraf is a genuine statement piece. Buy through the factory network with complete documentation, and approach ownership as stewardship of a significant and unusual car.

The market for the Taraf is extremely thin, and values are driven by collector sentiment. The buying process is through Aston Martin Works or the major auction houses, with complete documentation and factory verification essential. The car's extreme rarity and its significance as a modern Lagonda ensure its place in history. For the collector seeking one of the rarest modern Astons, the Taraf is a genuine statement piece. Approach ownership as stewardship of a significant and unusual car, and maintain it through the factory network.

The Taraf's significance extends beyond its rarity: it represents Aston Martin's willingness to build a true flagship saloon at a time when the market was moving towards SUVs. That context matters to collectors, and the car's place in the marque's history is secure. For the buyer seeking one of the most exclusive modern Astons, the Taraf offers a combination of presence, craftsmanship and rarity that few cars can match. Buy through the factory network with complete documentation, and approach ownership as the stewardship of a significant car.

How this review was compiled

Research-based ownership review using Aston Martin announcements and specialist market knowledge. We have not driven this car. Any purchase requires specialist marque advice and full provenance verification.