Daimler Conquest Century Drophead Coupe

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 The Daimler Company described its new Drophead Coupe thus: “With the power-operated hood folded away you have a fast open tourer that just laps up the miles. In seconds, when required, the hood comes up to the elegant "de ville" position; and a further simple adjustment gives you a snug closed car with the warmth and comfort of a saloon.”

The Conquest saloon was released to the public in 1953 as a replacement for the Daimler Consort, but was a smaller car with better performance. The Conquest offered pedigree with pace at a reasonable price and still had luxurious, well-appointed traditional wood-grain and leather interiors. The Daimler Conquest Century, so called as it offered 100hp from its 2,433cc over-head valve six cylinder engine, came with pre-selector gearbox, Daimler fluid flywheel, and a separate chassis incorporating independent front suspension and Girling hydro-mechanical brakes.

One of approximately 234 Drophead Coupes made, this delightful 1955 Daimler appears to be in good condition having clearly been well cared for throughout its 64 years.

With only 2 previous owners the Vendor purchased the Daimler in 1986 from Dr Lionel Hiscock of Emsworth, Hants, who in turn had purchased it from the original owner Rosemary Haward of Westhampnett, Chichester. Both are listed on the Buff logbook. It appears to have covered 87,000 miles, of which only 3,500 have been since 1992.

It was treated to a bare metal respray in original black cellulose in 1989 to a good standard (photos on file). The red leather interior appears to be original as does the wood dash. The hydraulic hood works as it should. The Daimler has been in storage since 1992 when it failed its MOT due to a worn steering box. The car will require recommissioning by the new owner as it was last started two years ago. 

Supplied with a V5C, original Buff logbook, seven old MOTs, Handbook and Service manual and invoices and bills showing regular maintenance this Daimler Conquest Drophead Coupé is a very rare car It is thought that fewer than 10 still exist in the UK so surely in the hands of a lucky new owner this lovely example will soon be back on the road!