1968 Daimler V8 250 Saloon

Despite its outward similarities to the Jaguar Mk II, the Daimler 2 ½ litre V8 Saloon was a completely different proposition. Although it was the first Jaguar designed motor car to sport the Daimler badge, the 2 ½ Litre V8 unit was far more compact and lighter than the Mk II with its six cylinder XK engine. All motor cars were fitted with automatic transmission as standard until 1967 when a manual gearbox became optional. In May 1966 and just three years after its launch, the Daimler 2 ½ litre Saloon was tested by Autocar and found to be efficient, quiet and smooth to drive. The V8 250 arrived in 1967 with improvements such as ventilated leather upholstery, padding over the dashboard, slim bumpers and other refinements. To this day, the models are widely preferred to their Jaguar sibling because of the Edward Turner designed engine.

This example has been the ownership of a retired motor engineer and Daimler and Lanchester Owner’s Club member, therefore one can presume that maintenance has been to a high standard. Indeed, WFM 704F has certainly been well-cared for and we understand has been garaged throughout its life and used in the summer months. The first and only other custodian owned the motor car for forty-seven years and was also a D&LOC member. In 1994, a new front chassis cross member was fitted and the ‘crow’s feet’ sections were also replaced. Regular servicing has been continually carried out and recent work has included the checking of the suspension (with replacement bushes fitted as required) and the engine and gearbox mountings (replacing as required). A new prop-shaft joint was also fitted and the brakes were thoroughly checked, with discs and pads and handbrake pads renewed. Importantly, the cylinder head has been overhauled (with the fitting of new valves and seals) and the motor car is equipped with stainless steel water pipes, a reconditioned water pump and a cooling fan drive unit. The bodywork and paint are described as being in good condition, having been the subject of a repaint approximately ten years ago. The interior is tidy, with the upholstery, interior trim, headlining and cappings all described as good. The carpets were replaced at the time of the repaint and all instrumentation is in working order, apart from the clock and original radio. The Daimler is fitted with power steering.

The history file includes the V5C registration certificate, numerous invoices and MOT test certificates dating back to 1979.

Auction Date: Wednesday 23 November 2016