highlights

Benefiting from an older restoration, this Daimler now presents in a charming condition
Fabulous 2.5-litre Daimler-engineered V8 driving the car through a well-matched Borg Warner automatic gearbox
Gorgeous colour combination of deep blue over a light cream leather interior

The Appeal

Following Jaguar’s purchase of Daimler in 1960 it became clear that Daimler required a new mid-sized saloon to replace its ageing Conquest model. A protype was subsequently developed, featuring the bodyshell of the Mk. 2 Jaguar paired with the superb 2.5-litre Daimler engineered V8 engine.

The 2.5 V8 (renamed V8-250 in 1967) was built between 1962 and 1969, with a total production number of only around 18,000 units, making it a relatively rare car compared to its Jaguar sibling. Its lightweight, characterful and sonorous V8 powerplant is very well matched to its Borg Warner automatic transmission and the result is a car of quite a different character to the Mk 2. on which it is based.

Lauded at launch for its refined nature and well equipped specification, the Daimler was always intended as an up-market offering, reflected in it being priced above the equivalent Jaguar of the day.

Out on the road the 2.5-litre hemi-head V8 develops a fabulous deep roar and combined with its fine performance and a refined ride, the Daimler offers its occupants a very special driving experience indeed.

The particular example offered here is an older restoration which now presents in a lovely mellowed condition. The owner tells us that after deciding on a Daimler V8, he viewed countless examples before settling on this particular car. During his ownership the car has been well cared for and kept covered in a dry garage, only used on sunny days.

Coming with a large history file and presented in a great colour combination of deep blue over light cream leather, this Daimler V8-250 now offers an opportunity to acquire a great example of an upmarket 1960s gem.

The History and Paperwork

V5C present
First registered November 1968
Owner’s handbook and service manual present
Photographs depicting previous restoration
Very large well-presented folder containing numerous invoices relating to previous restoration work and servicing

The Interior

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

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 Exterior

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 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

Large lever-arch file of history detailing extensive restoration work undertaken during the 1990s
Numerous subsequent invoices detailing on-going maintenance work
Serviced by current owner after acquiring the car 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 performs well on the road. With power steering fitted from factory, the Daimler is a pleasing and relaxing drive, and 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.

Summary

In our opinion, the Daimler V8-250 offers the unbeatable combination of a fabulous burbling V8 motor with the gorgeous looks of the Jaguar Mk. 2.

This particular example, benefiting from a previous restoration and enjoying regular use in the hands of its current owner, is now ready to bring its unique brand of classic motoring pleasure to a new custodian.

Notice to bidders

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