Description

1964 Daimler 2.5 V8 Automatic

Large history file from new; only 78,800 miles indicated; restored in the mid-1990s and sparingly used since; power steering; much recent expenditure; a most attractive example all round

As the original green logbook confirms, this Daimler V8 was bought new by a Mrs Joan Dixon Beck of Dorset in June 1964. She appears to have kept it until the mid-1970s, the original service book showing that it was regularly maintained by Spink (Bournemouth) Ltd with 12 stamps in the book up to 24,824 miles in July 1969.

Lots of invoices attest to subsequent upkeep, including what looks like an engine and gearbox rebuild in the mid-1980s when the car had covered around 70,000 miles. Other invoices show that a fair amount of restoration work took place in the mid-1990s including a full interior retrim and various bits of new chromework by which time the mileage had risen to around 75,000.

Correspondence on file states that from 2003 – 2019 the restored car was very little used, being kept in heated storage as something of a showpiece. In November 2019 an extensive schedule of recommissioning work was carried out for the previous owner of 14 years by Formula Fourdrive of Dersingham, Norfolk. This included an overhaul of the power steering, brakes and suspension with many new parts. The carbs were also rebuilt and a full service carried out. A new set of tyres and a new battery were also fitted.

Our vendor acquired the car in September 2020 and treated it to another full service, a new water pump and fresh auto transmission fluid (invoices on file). The car then passed its MOT and has since covered around 200 miles, the vendor reporting that it drives very nicely. It has certainly been starting promptly and running well as we have moved it around on site with good 40psi oil pressure. It now shows 78,811 miles which seems likely to be correct and tallies with the numerous invoices, service records and old MOTs on file.

There is some suggestion in the history file that it has previously seen service as a wedding car, a role which it could still carry off nicely today, such is the condition. Altogether a most attractive Daimler all round with a large history file, two sets of keys and retaining all its original handbooks plus a useful factory workshop manual.

For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com