Description
Following the purchase of Daimler by Jaguar in 1960, there was some pressure to produce a smaller saloon car to complement the larger Daimler Majestic model. The simple and cost-effective solution arrived at was to transplant the Daimler 2. 5 litre V8 engine (as fitted to the SP250 sports car) into the existing Jaguar Mk2 bodyshell. Thus the 2. 5 V8 saloon was born and launched to the public on October 8, 1962.
The Daimler is arguably a better vehicle than the equivalent 2. 4 litre Jaguar Mk2, being powered by a smooth V8 engine, producing a claimed 142 bhp, achieving a top speed of 112mph and 0-60mph time of 13. 8 seconds when tested by Autocar magazine in May 1963. In 1967, the Daimler 2. 5 V8 was mildly updated and renamed the V8-250. The most noticeable change was that of fitting slimmer bumpers and over-riders (a move shared with the equivalent Jaguar models), but also brought benefits with a negative-earth electrical system and an alternator instead of dynamo. The interior of the car retained the more luxurious leather seating found on the earlier model (which the equivalent Jaguar cars lost). Production continued until 1969, when the model was replaced with the Jaguar XJ6-based Daimler Sovereign.
This 1967 V8-250 was first registered new, in Jersey, in November of that year and has remained in the island throughout its life. The 46, 000 miles currently recorded could well be correct. We have no other early history for the vehicle, which was acquired by us as a dry-stored ‘barn find’ in 2023. Since then, we have returned it to a running state but have not undertaken any further running gear work, or bodywork and interior renovation, beyond a thorough cleaning of the car.
The V8 engine has been re-commissioned and now starts and runs reasonably well. The car has the optional and desirable manual with overdrive gearbox fitted, endowing it with a more sporting feel. It also has the power-assisted steering option. Although the car can be driven, the braking system needs an overhaul, as will various suspension components.
The bodywork is straight and nearly rust-free. After a long period in storage however, there are a number of small patches of surface corrosion and the paint finish is not perfect, as might be anticipated. There are no indications of previous repair work – the car is very original. The underside is solid, with no significant issues, just a little surface corrosion. The V8-250 sports wire wheels in place of the standard steel items.
The interior is complete and mostly intact. The blue leather interior is well patinated but largely free from rips and tears. All woodwork is present and in remarkably good condition (it has a full veneered dashboard). The interior carpeting and the headlining are still complete and in place. A period Philips radio is fitted.
This Daimler has the desirable style, comfort and handling of the Mk2 Jaguar, but with the added cachet of a smooth and wonderful-sounding V8 motor. Having a manual gearbox and with power steering makes this a very usable driver’s car.
With what is believed to be a genuinely low mileage, this is a very original vehicle, offered here in a solid but unrestored state, ideally for a new owner to return it to its full original splendour (work which we can undertake, if so commissioned).
The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with shipping and importation processes if required. We can ship worldwide.
