1963 Daimler 2.5 V8

Apart from gaining a much-needed extra factory, Jaguar's acquisition of Daimler in 1960 also brought with it their exquisite, Ed Turner-designed V8 engine. By installing this 2,548cc 'hemi' into the MKII body shell, 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 and a dynamo, rather than an alternator, looked after charging. It also came with a heated rear screen and various other upgrades. This model was known as the V8-250 rather than the 2.5-V8.

Otherwise identical to the MKII Jaguar, 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 compared to its Jaguar siblings thanks to its more favourable weight distribution with its lighter engine.

'630 NBP' is a 1963 model, Daimler and was found in Essex by the current vendor looking extremely sorry for itself and in need of a full restoration. The prospect seemed a bit daunting, but he considered it worth doing as the car had a lot of history including its original Buff Log Book, a pile of bills and receipts for expenditure over the years, and the original service record and main dealer warranty card.

This Daimler has now been totally rebuilt and today looks fabulous. The body preparation and multiple coats of paint, in its original Opalescent Green, alone cost in excess of £8000, and this single factor gives an indication of the level of restoration works undertaken over the past year and a half. The underside of the car is as good as the top in terms of the finish and seeing is most certainly believing. Likewise, no expense has been spared in the interior with all the wood cappings taken back and re-varnished, the leather re-Connolised and luxurious wool carpets fitted as a finishing touch. All the exterior brightwork has been dipped and plated and the wheels restored and new tyres fitted. Naturally, the engine and gearbox have been stripped and rebuilt and, as one might expect in a restoration this thorough, every other mechanical aspect of this sixties saloon has received attention. This delightful Daimler is in amazing condition and would be a great addition to any car collection, and Daimlers, we are assured, always did have a little more style!