Lot Ended
Description
Two owners from new, the current for 35 years; only 30,800 miles
indicated; always garaged; impressive condition; late S2 cross-over model with
S3 features
The Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas was
the flagship of the Daimler range, combining the renowned 5.3-litre V12 with the
luxurious Vanden Plas specification. Introduced in Series 2 form in 1973,
it represented the pinnacle of British luxury motoring, renowned for its
refinement, effortless performance and traditional
craftsmanship.
This very smart long wheelbase
example must be among the last S2 models made, the 3BC prefix in the VIN
number indicating that it is a cross-over model with certain features of
the Series 3 which came out in March 1979, including improved Lucas Bosch CEI
electronic ignition. Built in early 1979, it presumably sat around in a
showroom for some time as it was not actually registered until March 1980, the
original number being LLX 200V.
It is currently showing only 30,800
miles and has had just two owners from new, the second being a
firm of funeral directors who put a private plate on the car, VXI 6210, and have
owned it for 35 years during which time it has always been kept garaged
when not in use.
Finished
in deep black with a sumptuous black leather Vanden Plas interior, the car
retains its matching vinyl roof and what’s believed to be its original factory
gold coachline, chrome side strips and centre bonnet moulding, a handsome
specification that elevates the Daimler V12 above the Jaguar version. The car
presents in impressive condition throughout, with the leather interior
displaying only the light wear of its indicated mileage set off by its iconic
Kent alloys.
Having spent the last four years in
professional private storage alongside its stablemate, Lot 17, the Silver
Shadow, this Daimler will require some light recommissioning before returning to
the road. Attention is required to the fuel system, with a replacement fuel pump
seemingly fitted but not fully wired in.
On site,
we have managed to start the car briefly by supplying temporary electrical
power to the fuel pump. This should be considered strictly a temporary measure
and the car will need to be trailered offsite. Nevertheless, this does confirm
the integrity of the engine, subject to further
recommissioning.
Accompanied by its original
manuals, sales brochure, invoices and four old service stamps, the car is also
believed to have featured in the early 1990s television film Diana: Her True
Story, wearing its original LLX 200V registration number. An interesting
piece of history for a car befitting of its Daimler heritage and Royal
associations.
As can be seen in the service stamps and MOT certificates
shown in the photos, the indicated mileage would appear to be correct with
seemingly very short distances travelled each year, as you might expect of a car
reserved for occasional funeral duties.
In
summary, a handsome and highly original example of Daimler’s flagship V12 luxury
saloon, with interesting provenance and a well-documented history. Believed to
require only light recommissioning to return to the road, this presents a rare
opportunity to acquire a distinctive and seemingly very low mileage example of
the marque.
Contact - jack.kenneally-perrin@brightwells.com