Description
The Leyland Eight 7.0, introduced in 1920, was an ambitious luxury car produced by Leyland Motors, a company better known for commercial vehicles. Conceived as a top-tier luxury automobile, the Leyland Eight was designed by J.G. Parry-Thomas, a renowned engineer and racing driver, and intended to compete with the finest European and American cars of its time.
The Leyland Eight was powered by a massive 7.0-liter (7270cc) straight-eight engine, producing around 90 horsepower. This large engine provided the car with considerable power and a smooth driving experience, reaching speeds of up to 90 mph, which was exceptional for its era. It was paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and featured advanced engineering details, such as overhead camshafts and aluminum components, demonstrating cutting-edge technology for the period.
With a luxurious and imposing design, the Leyland Eight featured a long wheelbase, sweeping fenders, and a high level of interior refinement, aimed at the elite market. The car was highly customizable, and owners could select from various coachbuilders to suit their preferences, allowing for unique, bespoke bodywork.
However, the Leyland Eight’s high production cost and limited market appeal made it commercially unviable. Only about 18 units were produced, making it a rare collector’s item today. Despite its brief production run, the Leyland Eight is remembered as an engineering marvel and a symbol of early automotive luxury and innovation in Britain.