1959 Daimler SP250
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Highlights
- Interesting project car that appears solid
- Rare SP250, one of just 2,654 built
- Fitted with a 4.3litre Ford Windsor V8, like a Cobra
- Great opportunity to return to standard or exploit the V8 power
The Appeal
Daimler’s SP250 was the sports car that really could have been: with advanced, lightweight fibreglass bodywork and the firm’s superlative Turner V8 motor, it had the world at its feet.
Things didn’t quite work out that way. It started with disputes about the name - it was meant to be called the Dart until Dodge disagreed - then there was how it looked and finally its tendency to flex so badly that the doors opened if driven with enthusiasm and verve.
Over 60 years on from its launch those issues no longer count for much. Today the SP250 is one of the quirkiest, rarest and most interesting motors from the post-war British sports car boom. And of course, those original qualities of light weight and unruffled V8 urge remain compelling.
This early ‘A Spec’ SP250 has been off the road for a while but appears solid, making it an interesting project for an enthusiast. There is also a meaty Ford 260cu in Windsor V8 under the bonnet, giving the option to restore a Cobra-rival or return to standard. Whichever option you choose, this highly individual car will be an interesting addition to any garage.
The History and Paperwork
- Appears to have been issued with a Wisconsin VIN plate when it was converted to Ford power
- Imported to Europe on 28th November 2000 by the previous owner
- Bought by him in Wisconsin
- Previous owner retained the car for 20 years to August 2021, covering just 200 miles
- Current owner acquired the car in August 2021
- We are told that the Ford engine was fitted when the car was restored some time ago
- Early A Spec car with cut outs behind the door handles
- Only 2,654 SP250s were built of which only 1,770 were A Spec cars like this one
- Some documentation related to the importation and change of ownership supplied
- We are told that the engine and brakes will need overhauled before using
The Interior
- Interior is a mix of original and replacement items and is complete but requires restoration
- Original three wire-spoked leather rimmed steering wheel in deteriorated condition
- Wheel centre boss missing
- Smiths dials appear complete except for the rev counter
- Aftermarket rev counter fitted
- Front seats appear to be non-original but in matching brown vinyl and fabric finish
- Small rear seat in brown vinyl in poor condition
- Door cards in reasonable condition with complete furniture in fair condition
- Dashboard appears to be original and is complete, undamaged but in poor condition
The Exterior
- Red fibreglass bodywork appears to have been restored
- Fibreglass appears to be in good condition with no visible crazing
- Some paint sink appears to have occurred as paint has lost its lustre
- Bodywork is generally free of damage except for one area of cracked paintwork
- Various chops and marks to be seen around the car
- Chromework appears complete although the front chrome ‘whiskers’ are missing
- Original factory chrome hub caps undamaged but tarnished
- Steel wheels with elderly tyres fitted
- Chassis appears to be solid and in good condition showing only surface corrosion
- Vinyl roof is undamaged and unmarked and appears to fit correctly
- Roof windows are complete, uncracked but have misted
The Mechanics
- Originally fitted with the Daimler ‘Turner’ 2.5litre V8 engine
- Now fitted with a Ford 260cu in ‘Windsor’ 4.3litre V8 as used on early Shelby Cobras
- Manual gearbox that appears to be equipped with overdrive but of unknown origin
- Vendor states that the engine turns but will need overhauled
- He also states that the brakes will require attention
Summary
The SP250 may not have found willing buyers when new but today its rarity, unique style and burbling power make it a sought-after alternative to more obvious 60s British two seaters.
This A Spec car will need some loving care but it appears to be solid. That, plus its unusual specification, surely mark it out as a particularly interesting classic car project for an enthusiastic buyer.
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