1966 Daimler 250

Huge recent expense on the engine

Great history file

The year was 1966 – The Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" filled the airwaves, England marched triumphantly towards their first and only FIFA World Cup victory, and a new era of British motoring luxury was epitomised by the Daimler 250 V8 Saloon. Crafted with poise and powered by innovative engineering, this car represented a perfect blend of performance and refinement, symbolizing an era of optimism and timeless style. Introduced in 1962 and produced until 1969, the Daimler 250 V8 was the first and only small saloon to be powered by a V8 engine. It borrowed the elegant body shell of the Jaguar Mark 2, a design by Sir William Lyons, but featured Daimler's distinctive touches – from the fluted grille and unique badging to its exclusive power-plant.

The 2.5-liter V8 engine, developed from Edward Turner's renowned design, delivered 140 horsepower and silky smoothness, setting it apart from its peers. The combination of this powerful V8 with a compact, beautifully proportioned saloon body resulted in a car that could cruise effortlessly yet thrill with a 0-60 mph time of under 13 seconds and a top speed of approximately 112 mph. This graceful blend of comfort and agility was enhanced by rack-and-pinion steering, independent front suspension, and servo-assisted disc brakes on all four corners, making it as adept at spirited drives as it was at grand touring.

This particular 1966 Daimler 250 V8 Saloon comes with a charming personal story. I had the pleasure of collecting this car from a French gentleman, a dear friend of ours, in Lille, France. The drive back to London, via the Eurotunnel, was an absolute delight – she drove as sweet as a nut, starting with barely a turn of the engine, even from cold! Her performance was as smooth as her graceful lines, reaffirming her mechanical excellence every mile of the journey. The French gentleman acquired this Daimler in 2016, embarking on a rewarding ownership experience filled with drives, enjoyment, and substantial investment. His commitment to maintaining and enhancing the car has resulted in an exceptionally strong engine, having recently benefitted from significant expenditure to ensure reliability and performance. This is a classic that has been cherished and cared for, ready to provide its next owner with the same joy.

Finished in a rich, period-correct exterior paint that complements the refined interior trim, this Daimler embodies British luxury and sophistication. Every detail, from the polished wood veneer dashboard to the supple leather upholstery, reflects a dedication to craftsmanship that defines the Daimler marque. Behind the wheel, the 250 V8 Saloon delivers an experience that is both serene and spirited. The burble of the V8 engine provides a soundtrack of effortless power, while the supple ride and precise handling inspire confidence on winding roads or open motorways alike. Its lightweight V8 engine ensures nimbleness, while luxurious appointments make every journey a refined pleasure. With its unique pedigree, meticulous care, and engaging history, this 1966 Daimler 250 V8 Saloon is more than a car – it's a living piece of British motoring heritage. Whether cherished as part of a collection or enjoyed as a distinguished driver's car, it stands as a testament to timeless design, engineering brilliance, and the sheer joy of the open road.