1968 Daimler V8 250

HIGHLIGHTS

Charming old Daimler in need of light work
Fitted with Edward Turner V8
Fully rebuilt engine
Solid, straight and honest


THE APPEAL

In 1960, Jaguar acquired the Daimler company and set into play a plan that would revitalise the luxury car maker’s sales. The Daimler 2½ V8, as it was initially named, was the first Daimler car to be based on a Jaguar model, the idea being that traditionally wealthy Daimler customers would still buy one, but there were minimal development costs.
The Jaguar Mk 2 on which the Daimler was based was modified to allow space for the Edward Turner V8 engine, as found in the SP250 ‘Dart’ sports car.
This one is a really late example from 1968, the last full year of 250 production. It was restored several years ago but is now in need of some light recommissioning having been parked up as part of a private collection for a number of years.
The vendor is now downsizing his collection to create space for business expansion, so is reluctantly letting it go to a new home.
THE INTERIOR

Tobacco-coloured leather
Wood veneer dash
Good carpets and headlining
Original Radiomobile stereo
Trimmed with unusual ‘Tobacco’ leather and with matching door cards and carpets, the 250 V8 has a charming interior patina, showing gentle signs of wear but in a way that you wouldn’t want to touch – it’s seeping with character.
The seats, doors and headlining are in excellent order, and the carpets are tidy, while the wooden dash and veneers are very presentable. The highlight is the original Radiomobile radio – a hugely expensive option when new.
THE EXTERIOR

Solid and complete
All chrome and trim in serviceable condition
Minor cosmetics needed
Strong underneath

The Daimler is by no means perfect, but it’s a solid car and a really good basis to bring up to excellent condition.

Critically, according to the vendor it is very strong and solid underneath. On top, there’s some minor damage to the rear valance and a few rust bubbles on one front wing, some of the chrome is slightly deteriorated and the paint is flat in places, while there are also two wheel trims missing. It’s nothing insurmountable at all and you could happily use it ‘as is’ if cosmetics aren’t your major concern – but the car would also be the perfect candidate for a mild restoration to take it to the next level.
THE MECHANICS

2. 5-litre OHV Daimler “Edward Turner” V8
Completely rebuilt with photos to prove
Automatic transmission
Runs well and holds good oil pressure

The Edward Turner-designed V8 is a terrific engine and one that sounds fantastic. This one is as good as they get, having been subject to complete rebuild under the care of its previous owner – something that will take a huge amount of cost and concern away from the car’s next owner. There are photos with the car showing the extent of the work carried out.

Despite standing idle for many years, on the day of out photoshoot it fired up on the second turn of the key once fitted with a new battery. As the car has been standing, a full check over of the running gear, brakes and suspension should be carried out before the car is driven on the road.