Daimler V8-250

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When Jaguar bought Daimler in 1960, they gained access to the brilliant Edward Turner designed Daimler Dart 2.5 litre V8 engine.

This was soon shoehorned into the Jaguar MK II bodyshell and being lighter than the cast-iron XK-engine, gave the Daimler version better handling and performance than the entry level Jaguar 2.4-litre model. Projecting the more exclusive Daimler image, the resulting 2.5 V8 model was aimed to appeal to a more traditional client base. A name change to V8 250 coincided with a gentle mid-life update, the specification now including reclining front seats, slimmer bumpers, alternator and heated rear screen.

According to the V5C, this particular car was made in 1967. With its distinctive fluted grille, this automatic V8 is attractive in opalescent light blue with matching blue leather interior, sporting wire wheels and folding sunroof. In low mileage local usage ownership since 2011, (just a few miles since its MOT pass in May), the car is in essentially sound condition although recent MOT advices do indicate some preventative work will soon be necessary.

At the time of our visit, the car started easily (it is hoped a blowing exhaust will be sorted by the auction date). The exterior shows signs of faded elegance and the car would benefit from some work to the paintwork and exterior to bring it back to its former glory. Inside, the carpet is in good condition, while the important wood trim was extensively renovated in 2004, and this is still reflected in its condition today. All instruments with the exception of the fuel gauge are in working order.

Supplied with a V5C Registration document, a Brooklands reproduction workshop manual, old MoT's, some invoices and old log book, this is a sensibly priced V8 saloon which, with some effort and enthusiastic attention, would produce a most desirable and elegant form of transport.