Description
The Daimler SP250, introduced in 1959, known at launch as the “Dart,” this distinctive two seater sports car combined a lightweight fibreglass body with Edward Turner’s 2. 5-litre V8 engine, delivering 140 bhp and a top speed of around 120 mph. Produced in limited numbers—just 2, 645 examples before production ceased in 1964.
Offered for sale this 1960 Type A finished in Jaguar Carmen Red which has had a comprehensive bare-metal restoration completed by XJ Restorations and in 2020 a professional respray at Painting Classic Cars of Eastbourne, Mechanically, the car has benefitted from extensive care and upgrades while retaining its matching-numbers engine. The Edward Turner V8 has been overhauled by Gosnay’s Engineering, paired with a four-speed gearbox, and supported by sympathetic enhancements including rack-and-pinion steering, electric fan, brake servo, Zeus front calipers, discs, shocks,
and an IRS built by AJS Engineering. Sitting on MWS chrome wire wheels with Michelin tyres. The interior has been retrimmed by C A Upton.
The car has been used for several European tours, a testament to its road-ready condition and long-distance ability. A Jaguar Heritage Trust production record trace certificate (2017) further confirms its provenance.
This SP250 comes with an exceptional history file and accompanying items, including:
• Factory workshop manual, owner’s handbook, original parts catalogue
• Rare Brian Long reference book on the Daimler SP250
• Over 50 invoices exceeding £9, 000 since 2017
• USB stick documenting bodywork, chassis, engine, brakes, interior, number stamps, and receipts
• Two large boxes of various spare parts
• Box file with a handwritten service log (1988–2013), original registration documents, tax discs, magazines, further invoices.
Also offered with a hard top requiring refurbishment, providing the next custodian with an opportunity to complete a detail in this otherwise comprehensive history of restoration and preservation.
It is presented not only as an outstanding example of the Daimler SP250, but as a complete package with provenance, spares, and upgrades to ensure continued enjoyment.
An inspection and test drive is a must to hear the “growl” from the Edward Turner V8 and understand the enjoyment to drive this classic car!
