1968 Daimler V8-250
Highlights
- Older restoration in fetching colour scheme
- Long list of recent work including suspension and rear calipers
- Very smart example in very good condition
- Low displayed mileage supported by MOTs
- Factory fitted with power steering
The Appeal
With its burbling V8, factory fitted power steering and automatic gearbox, this Daimler V8-250 may just be the definition of a relaxing touring car. It is in very good condition, the fetching dark blue complemented by a light grey interior.
It is easy to see why the current keeper fell for it when it came up for sale last year. He has invested considerably in it during his ownership and is only selling now due a change of circumstances.
The recent work has included attention to the suspension, brakes, HT leads and cap and an engine tune. There are also new engine mounts and two new tyres.
The V8-250 is one of the best classic saloons of the 1960s. And this one is a particularly good example.
History and Paperwork
- First registered 19th November 1968
- Nine registered keepers from new
- VIN records show this car was factory fitted with power steering
- It was factory built in 1968 according to records
- Comprehensive folder supplied with the car
- Mileage not warranted, but numerous MOTs seem to support the indicated mileage
- Acquired by current keeper in July 2023
- Only for sale due to current keeper’s change of circumstances
- V5C present
- Owner’s handbook and service manual present
- Dry garage stored by previous keeper to 2023 with similar attention by current keeper
- Large and well-presented folder
- This contains numerous invoices relating to previous restoration work and servicing
- Last MOT expired 21 April 2024 with no advisories
- 45,372 miles showing on last test and now showing 45,503 miles
- MOT history shows very sparing use since 2006
- Recent work summarised below
Recent work since July 2023:
- New front suspension on both sides
- Rear calipers refurbished
- New brake pads at rear
- All HT leads and caps replaced
- Engine tuned
- Two new tyres
- Engine mounts replaced
The Condition
- Lovely combination of patinated cream leather interior over light carpets, with a dark walnut veneer trim in a very presentable condition
- Perforated leather seats showing signs consistent with their age, with some tears and discolouration noted
- Carpets complete and presenting in a very nice condition
- Deep blue exterior contrasting pleasingly against ample brightwork in a lovely condition
- Gorgeous fluted grill unique to Daimler models
- Graceful and stylish slimline bumpers and over-riders of this later facelift model
- Bodywork reported to be in excellent condition without any significant corrosion
- The vendor advises that the seats ideally would benefit from hide feed
- A couple of repairs are required for the rear and driver's seat, but nothing serious
- The rest of the interior is in very good condition
- The dashboard is very well kept with good veneer
- Two new tyres fitted
The interior of the Daimler is one area where it more visibly distances itself from its Jaguar sibling. Distinguishing features include split bench reclining front seats, the absence of a centre console and a black enamel steering wheel. The example offered here, being from 1968 represents one of the facelift cars, and is further distinguished by its perforated leather upholstery and soft padding over the dashboard top and door cappings.
Sitting inside this particular example, despite it now showing some wear to the leather, it’s hard not to be impressed. Attractive large clear dials sit directly in front of the driver and there is a bank of auxiliary gauges and toggle switches over the central dash. The overall effect is to give the impression of switchgear similar to a vintage plane, the deep bench seating however is undoubtedly more comfortable than anything with wings!
The body shape and style of the Daimler V8-250 has to be a contender for one of the most attractive small saloon cars ever built. Of course, it owes the vast majority of its looks to the Jaguar Mk. 2, but there are small Daimler touches here and there which we think really elevate this particular model.
With its fluted grill and more delicate bumpers dazzling against its deep blue paint, this V8-250 appears very handsome indeed. Given the fact it is now an older restoration there are small imperfections to the paint, as one would expect. We think on the whole the car has a lovely mellowed appearance, and its current condition gives the opportunity for its next owner to either enjoy it ‘as is’ or take to it the next level.
The Mechanics
- Mellifluous Turner 2,548 cc V8 engine
- 3spd automatic transmission with column shift
- New front suspension on both sides
- Rear calipers refurbished with new pads fitted
- All HT leads and caps replaced prior to retuning
- Replacement engine mounts installed
- The vendor tells us that the car starts on the button every time and sounds great
- Rear silencers ideally need replacing due to poor previous repair as shown
- Vendor reports that the car has effortless power steering
- Serviced in late 2020, including a fuel tank flush
Looking through the history file for this Daimler it is evident that the car underwent a full and comprehensive restoration during the 1990s and also subsequent to this, has had regular maintenance work performed.
Speaking to the owner he tells us that the car fires up keenly and with power steering fitted from factory the Daimler should give a pleasing and relaxing drive - the brakes work well when required.
Looking at the clear and detailed photographs of the underside, everything appears well, and additionally the owner tells us that after acquiring the car he had it inspected by a Jaguar specialist who also reported the condition to be sound.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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Auction Details
- Year 1968
- Make Daimler
- Model 250 V8
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 45,503 Miles
- Engine size 2548
- Seller Type Private
- Town Little Braxted
- County Essex
- Country United Kingdom
-
Auction ends
6 Bids
from 4
bidders
- Clive s•••• £7,000 10/09/24
- Clive s•••• £6,800 10/09/24
- ajrice•••• £6,500 09/09/24
- maurizi•••• £6,100 09/09/24
- ajrice•••• £6,000 07/09/24
- MP47•••• £5,000 06/09/24
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