Daimler V8 250

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Apart from gaining a much-needed extra factory, Jaguar's acquisition of Daimler in 1960 also brought with it the exquisite Ed Turner-designed V8 engine used in the Dart sportscar.

By installing this 2,548cc 'hemi' into the MKII bodyshell, Jaguar hoped to create a more exclusive, upmarket car that would appeal to Daimler's more traditional client base.

Launched in 1962, the new model was instantly distinguished from its Jaguar siblings by the traditional Daimler fluted grille and was initially only available with a bench front seat and 3-speed automatic box. It was updated in 1967 with reclining front seats, slimmer bumpers, dynamo rather than alternator charging, a heated rear screen and various other upgrades, this model being known as the 250 V8 rather than the 2.5 V8.

Otherwise identical to the MKII, it featured all round disc brakes, independent front suspension and a Panhard rod located live rear axle. With 140bhp and 155lbft of torque on tap from its magnificently smooth and sonorous V8, the Daimler was capable of 115mph. It was also said to enjoy superior chassis dynamics to its Jaguar siblings thanks to its more favourable weight distribution due to the relatively light-weight engine.

Sadly dropped from the Jaguar range in 1969 after some 17,600 examples had been sold, it was a great car which was never properly replaced. Jaguar’s bosses continued to try and move the Daimler brand even further upmarket, using a range of top-line badge-engineered Jaguar based products which never quite caught the mystique of the Imperial Daimlers of the past.

This 1967 V8 was purchased in 1987 from a couple who lived in Lockerbie. Although running, it required extensive renovation which included much bodywork repair and a repaint. The engine is believed to be the original and the speedo is showing some 109,000 miles which is believed to be genuine.

The interior was retrimmed in the correct coloured leather in 1998, with extensive body restoration being carried out in 2004. A comprehensive brake upgrade was also undertaken in 2005 using Coopercraft cylinders and new discs. Power steering has also been fitted, a useful addition which makes the car much more pleasant to drive around town.

On offer from a deceased estate, there is sadly no further paperwork to give more information about the car's history. It hasn't run for some months and its MOT is due to expire just a few days before the sale. It will therefore need a modicum of recommissioning before use and is being sold here with no reserve, so bid vigorously now or kick yourself for your hesitancy hereafter!