Lot Ended
Description
Older restoration with numerous choice upgrades; chassis strengthened
to later B/C specification; upgraded rack and pinion steering with stainless
steel exhaust; large history folder with many invoices from marque specialists;
gorgeous exhaust note
The Daimler SP250,
affectionately known as the 'Dart', is one of Britain's more distinctive
post-war sports cars. Introduced in 1959, it combined lightweight fibreglass
construction with Daimler's lively 2.5-litre V8 engine, offering impressive
performance that rivalled many of its contemporaries.
Produced in relatively small numbers and possessing a character of
its own, the SP250 has become an increasingly sought-after classic, appreciated
for its rarity, distinctive styling and surprisingly capable driving
manners.
Manufactured in 1960, this SP250 is an
early 'A'-Specification example, presented in an attractive cream finish over
tan leather upholstery, a combination that suits the car's distinctive styling
particularly well. Originally finished in blue, it underwent a comprehensive
mechanical overhaul and colour change in 1989 at a cost of £2,650, during which
the chassis was strengthened to later B/C specification.
Accompanying the car is an extensive history file, including its
original buff logbook, numerous historic MOT certificates and a large collection
of invoices documenting routine maintenance and repairs over many years. These
range from replacement sundry items supplied by well-known Daimler specialists
to more substantial work on the braking system and clutch, suggesting the car
has been consistently maintained.
Although
supporting invoices are not present, a previous sales description from 2015
records the fitment of a rack-and-pinion steering conversion, electronic
ignition and a stainless-steel exhaust system. The same description also states
that the car benefitted from engine and gearbox rebuilds carried out by
respected marque specialist Barry Thorne, with photographs of the engine
machining accompanying the history file.
More
recently, the car has resided on the Isle of Wight, from where it successfully
completed the journey back to the mainland before being transported to the sale.
It has run and driven on site exactly as one would expect from a well-sorted
SP250, displaying excellent oil pressure throughout, lending further credence to
the recorded engine work.
The cream paintwork
presents in honest condition, with only a few minor imperfections to the
fibreglass bodywork, the most notable of which have been photographed. These do
little to detract from the car's overall appearance and arguably only add to its
usability. The smart finish is complemented by what appears to be a new set of
wire wheels, which suit the car particularly well.
Inside, the tan leather interior presents in very good order, as does
the useful tonneau cover, while the hood is also present and remains seemingly
usable.
Offered for sale only due to lack of use,
this charming Daimler presents as an honest and highly usable example,
benefitting from many of the desirable upgrades and improvements enthusiasts
look for.
With classic British sports cars continuing to offer excellent
value, this characterful V8 roadster represents an appealing opportunity to
enjoy open-top motoring for the remainder of the
summer.
Contact - jack.kenneally-perrin@brightwells.com