Beskrivning
The 250 V8 Saloon was the first Daimler to share a platform with a Jaguar after the companies acquisition by Jaguar in 1960. It was also the last Daimler to feature a Daimler engine. The Daimler engine was 51 KG lighter than the XK engine in the Jaguar, as was the Borg Warner gearbox. Exterior changes were minimal, the most notable of which is the fluted grille, as well as subtle badging and unique hubcaps. The interior featured the expected levels of luxury with wooden door cappings, window surrounds and dashboard. Perforated leather upholstery and padded dash top were features of later cars along with the slimline bumpers.
This very pretty 1968 car was purchased by its first owner, a Mr Stewart, from A. J. Beal Ltd in Exeter using a legacy left to him by an ‘Aunt Alice’. In 1988, having covered just 38, 000 miles the car was reluctantly sold to a Mr Hawkins of Longdown Garage. He used the car as his daily transport clocking up 25, 000 miles in 8 years. In 1996 he sold the car to a Mr Keen who kept it two years clocking up just 1, 000 miles. In 1996 ‘Alice’ passed to its most recent owner having covered just 63, 358 miles in its 30 year life. It sat alongside his classic Jaguar and Mustang and was used for pleasure trips including family weddings and trips to Goodwood.
The car remains very original and unrestored which is always my preference rather than an over restored car! There is an incredibly comprehensive history file with invoices back to the early 70’s and even the original service book with stamps from the supplying dealer. The plastic wallet and hand books are still present and in excellent condition. The car is very straight on the body panels and the panel fitment is excellent as can be seen in the photos. The interior still benefits from the original dark blue leather which is in very good condition and simply cannot be matched by a modern retrim. The headlining and carpet have been replaced and the wood trim has been re-lacquered. All gauges and electrical items are working with the exception of the heated rear window (which if the history file is to believed, packed up in the 70’s). It starts easily on the button, the gearbox (which was rebuilt around 10 years ago) engages quickly and shifts smoothly through the gears. Brakes are excellent and steering and suspension all appear to have had regular maintenance.
There service records show that the Daimler main dealer serviced the car at 3k, 6k, 9k, 12k, 16k, 18k, 21k, 23k, 26k, 29k, 32k, 34k and then a local garage at 37k, 39k, 40k, 41k, 43k, 45k, 46k. Since then the maintenance was carried out by the fastidious owners with all invoices present showing parts required.
In summary this is an excellent and very original car with one of the most comprehensive histories I’ve seen. I’ve used this car daily since it came in and have enjoyed every mile.
50 Photos plus a walk around video on my website
