Benefiting from previous mechanical and cosmetic restoration
Glorious 2.5-litre V8 mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
Rare original factory hardtop
Assorted spare parts also included with the sale
The Appeal
With only 2654 examples ever built, the SP250 is both a rare and striking sports car produced by Daimler between 1959 and 1964. Powered by the fabulous Edward Turner designed 2.5-litre hemispherical V8 engine, the SP250 was a genuinely quick car in its day, making the dash to 60 in only 8.9 seconds and topping out at over 120 MPH.
Following Daimler’s acquisition by Jaguar in 1960, the SP250 underwent further development work primarily focused on chassis strengthening. This gave rise to the so-called ‘B-spec’ models, an example of which we offer here for auction.
Coming out of long term ownership since 1997, this particular SP250 has benefited from substantial restoration work over the years, including an engine and gearbox rebuild along with a recent clutch replacement. Presented in lightly mellowed Ivory white paintwork over a gorgeous retrimmed red leather interior, this SP250 now offers a great opportunity to get behind the wheel of an iconic British V8.
Reupholstered to a high standard in red leather with new maroon carpets
Attractive and original dashboard instrumentation and switchgear
Interior generally presenting in a super condition
Contrasting beautifully against its Ivory white exterior, the retrimmed interior of this SP250 has clearly been completed to a high standard and still presents in a fabulous condition today, with little evidence of wear.
The inside of the Daimler is, as one would expect, classic early 60’s sports car. From behind the upright large thin-rimmed steering wheel, the short gear leaver falls nicely to hand with the fly-off handbrake tucked down beside your left knee.
Instrumentation is provided by a bank of classic Smiths and Lucas gauges, with the central dials sitting on a turned metal base. In terms of functionality, the owner reports that although working, it has been known for the speedometer to under-read and the temperature gauge to over-read on occasion.
As for other interior equipment, the owner tells us that although the cabin heater and screen washers are functional and fitted to the car, they are yet to be fully connected up – something we feel a new owner should be able to remedy fairly quickly should it be desired.
The sporting cockpit and its period feel are nicely completed by a correct dashtop-mounted rear view mirror. 20230712_131340.jpg3.93 MB
The Exterior
Previously repainted in original Ivory white, now showing some signs of age
Excellent new soft-top hood with rare and little-used hardtop provided
Optional painted wire wheels in good condition and shod in Bridgestone rubber with good tread
Brightwork replated and presenting in excellent condition
Sitting on wire wheels with its chrome dazzling in the sunshine, this SP250 looks every bit the desirable 60’s sports car.
Previously benefiting from a respray in its original shade of Ivory white, today this Daimler is still in a very presentable condition. Closer inspection reveals a few areas of minor paint cracking and crazing, particularly around the door handles, hinges and an area over the bonnet and front wing. The body panels generally however appear straight and look to be free of any significant damage.
The owner reports that the car also benefits from replating of its brightwork and as can be seen in the photographs, this too presents in an excellent condition (including the optional(!) bumpers).
Reported by the owner to have undergone a substantial engine and gearbox rebuild
Manual 4-speed gearbox with fitment of the optional overdrive
Replacement clutch fitted around 6 months ago
Reported by the owner to be in excellent running condition
Tool roll and jack provided
The owner reports that this SP250 is in exceptional running condition and given the reported mechanical work to the engine and gearbox, this should come as no surprise. Taking a look under the bonnet, the engine bay is in a very presentable condition and the V8 also appears very clean and complete.
The owner tells us that one area which does require attention perhaps is the SP250’s fuel tank, as when filled to capacity a small fuel leak is evident.
We are told that the car starts keenly, usually on the first turn of the key, and performs nicely whilst out on the road without any undue smoke, knocks or rattles.
Hailing from a golden age of British sports car production, the relatively rare Daimler SP250 offers the fantastic combination of stylish open-air motoring with an unbeatable V8 soundtrack. A lovely example presented in a gorgeous colour combination, this SP250 is now ready for its next adventure.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
