1960 Daimler SP250 Dart
Factory Experimental Department car with automatic transmission

Registration No: 1903 HP
Chassis No: 100598
MOT: Exempt

• UK supplied RHD example fitted with rare automatic transmission
• Subject to a recent professional mechanical overhaul
• JDHT certificate, MOT's back to 1976 and numerous maintenance invoices
• Current ownership since 2013

Daimler launched their new sports car at the 1959 New York Motor Show. They wanted to crack the American market and the styling had transatlantic overtones to suit. By 1960, the Daimler Motor Company was in Jaguar's hands and the so-called B specification SP250s featured a much stiffer frame, equipped with additional outriggers and a strengthening hoop between the B-posts. The jewel in the car's crown was its engine, a silky smooth 2.5-litre V8 unit designed by Edward Turner and featuring the revolutionary hemispherical combustion chamber technology he pioneered on his Triumph motorcycle engines. With 140bhp on tap and a low all-up weight, the Daimler's performance was strong and the sound was one to savour. According to the Motor magazine test of the period, the SP250 could accelerate to 60mph in a creditable 8.9 seconds and continue on to a top speed of 123.7mph.

This UK supplied RHD example is believed to be the first Daimler SP250 ever fitted with automatic transmission, and was originally used by the company's experimental department. Well known in the Daimler enthusiast community, having been featured in multiple publications and retaining extensive historical documentation, it is fitted with a three-speed automatic gearbox
and is documented in the Daimler company records.

First registered in April 1960, it has been in the current fourth owner’s possession for 12 years and is powered by a 2. 5-litre V8 coupled to a Detroit DG gearbox. Finished in a vibrant shade of red with black vinyl soft-top roof, black leather-trimmed interior, beige carpet, and textured metal dashboard inlay. The car rides on a set of 15-inch cross-spoke wire wheels with two-spoke chrome knock-offs, with Vredestein sprint classic tyres. Included in the sale is a removable hardtop, which will require recommissioning prior to use. The car benefits from a recent mechanical overhaul by marque specialist AJ Lee Classics Ltd which included fitting a new battery, a full brake overhaul, engine bay detailing, replacement of gaskets and seals, a coolant flush, a full lubrication service, electrical repairs and boot area trimming. Accompanied by a current V5C, Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, MOT certificates dating back to 1976, two spare keys, a spare wheel and numerous maintenance invoices since 2013, the car's last MOT test, conducted on 21 July 2018 at an indicated 34,496 miles, resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories.

Under the current ownership the car has received substantial mechanical care, including the installation of an uprated rack and pinion steering system, overhauled front suspension with poly bushes, rear telescopic shock conversion, anti-roll bar fitment, spin-on filter conversion and front trunnion overhaul. This Daimler SP250 Dart is a highly distinctive example of the marque's characterful V8-powered roadster, notable not only for its charismatic engine and styling, but also for its documented role as an experimental factory build. Well known in Daimler circles and benefiting from significant investment during long-term ownership, it is presented in fair cosmetic order with substantial mechanical refurbishment. A charming and significant British classic, it would make a fascinating addition to a collection or a very engaging companion for summer drives and classic motoring events.

For more information, please contact:
James McWilliam
james.mcwilliam@handh.co.uk
07943 584760