Daimler 2.5 V8 Saloon

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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.

First registered in September 1963, this 250 V8 has been very little used in recent years, an old MOT showing that it has only covered some 300 miles since 2010, the odometer currently showing some 10,414 miles (unwarranted). It comes with a fair few bills showing recent maintenance including a new fuel tank and new Panhard rod bushes in 2015, various suspension bushes and mountings in 2014 and a new brake master cylinder in 2013.

Red with a dark red leather interior, it is in fair condition all round and would make an ideal starter classic for someone. Only recently acquired by the vendor, it was driven some 70 miles to its new home without drama and is said to run well with a nice rattle-free ride thanks to all the new suspension bushes. We are told that the engine runs sweetly and the gears change smoothly. MOTd until October 2016 and due to have an oil service in time for the sale, it can be driven away today.

It is only up for sale because the vendor has now bought an Austin-Healey 100/6 in need of restoration and the space the Daimler takes up is required for the new project.