Lot details
Registration No: 443 YUY
Chassis No: 59035
Mot Expiry: Exempt

- Subject to a 'ground up' restoration and 83,460 recorded miles

- Offered with a large collection of invoices

- The finest example we have ever encountered


Further info:

Popular among DB18 connoisseurs were the Drophead Coupes built by Barker between 1948 and 1952. The vast majority of the c.500 made were three-seaters notable for the single transversely-mounted chair in the rear. However, around a dozen, like the sale car, featured a small bench seat with sufficient accommodation for a pair of small children. Topping the sturdy steel ladder chassis was a hand-beaten aluminium body, paired with heavy gauge steel wings. Power came from an in-line OHV six-cylinder engine of 2522cc that, courtesy of a high compression aluminium head and twin carburettors, produced 85bhp. This was mated to a four-speed Wilson pre-selector gearbox and the model's comprehensive specification included such mechanical niceties as automatic chassis lubrication and integral jacking.

The immaculately-presented, 83,460 mile example now offered was acquired by the vendor in 2009, since when it has subsequently been the subject of a painstakingly extensive restoration of virtually every component, and is now without question the finest we have ever encountered. The exhaustive overhaul included the refurbishment of the engine, differential, suspension (that was subsequently set up to original specification on the latest computerised equipment) and instruments, while the entire interior trim and wiring loom were renewed and flashing indicators added, and a stainless steel exhaust installed. The body work, paintwork and ash frame repairs were carried out by PF Autos of Staffordshire.

Finished in Maroon over Grey complemented by Red leather interior trim and hood, it last year won `Best Car' in the Lancashire Automobile Club's Manchester to Blackpool run and `Best Barker-bodied Car' in the Northern Daimler rally to Newby Hall. `443 YUY' comes complete with its original tool kit and a large collection of invoices. Though the Daimler does not require an MOT, it was recently subjected to an equivalent test, which it passed with flying colours. This car has to be seen to be believed!