Lot details Registration No: NKB 499 Chassis No: 59221 Mot Expiry: June 2007
Introduced at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show, the Daimler DB18 Special Sports Drophead Coupe was the work of in-house coachbuilder Barker. Bodied in aluminium over a wooden frame (save for its steel wings), the model's sleek lines concealed an unusual sideways-facing rear seat. Boasting independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension, an underslung worm-drive rear axle, Marles worm-and-roller steering and Girling hydro-mechanical drum brakes, the three-seater convertible was powered by a 2522cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed pre-selector transmission. With some 85bhp and 116lbft of torque on tap thanks to its twin SU carburettors, the Special Sports was reputedly capable of 86.5mph. Initially priced at £2,560 7s 10d, the stylish drophead coupe remained in production until 1953 by which time approximately 500 are thought to have been sold.
Finished in maroon over grey with red leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good / original" (interior trim), "very good" (bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) or "excellent" (engine, pre-selector transmission, electrical equipment, chassis) condition. Reportedly treated to a "five-year, body-off restoration" following its acquisition in 1995 by well-known local engineer and VSCC member the late John Mazotti, 'NKB 499' is understood to have covered some 14,000 miles since work was completed (including various European tours). A measure of the seller's confidence in this "nicely sorted and reliable" car, we are informed that it will arrive at the Pavilion Gardens under its own power. A handsome coachbuilt Daimler, 'NKB 499' is offered for sale with restoration invoices / photos, MOT certificate valid until June 13th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until April 2007.
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