1964 Daimler 2.5 V8 Saloon

The 1964 Daimler we are selling is a fine example. That lovely V8 purrs like a pussycat and is of course mated to that old smoothie, the automatic gearbox.

Most of the older classic cars we sell have undergone some degree of restoration, but the owner of this car in the 1990s took the concept to a whole new level.

Over a five-year period, he entrusted renowned classic car restorers Rees Bros of Aldershot with the task of restoring the Daimler to as new condition.

Why it took so long is anyone’s guess, but it may well be because of the substantial cost involved. A scarcely believably £45,904.25 was spent which probably took some finding.

We also know that the car was sold at auction in 2008, the sum realised being less than a third of this, so someone clearly got a bargain.

The car has had a few owners since then, with invoices for maintenance and a recent gearbox rebuild present and correct.

The Daimler has travelled less than 10,000 miles in the last 15 years and as is often the case, lack of use means it is time to offer the car for sale. And with space for four adults and a decent sized boot, this is the ideal car to take on a touring holiday. Appealing prospect…

Without any information to the contrary, we believe the paintwork is likely to be that which was applied during the ‘90s restoration. That being the case, it has stood the test of time remarkably well. It has a great shine, the car doubtlessly being pampered and cossetted in later life.

We do note an area of bubbling on the left-hand side sill, but this should be simple enough to deal with.

The rather imposing fluted grille dominates the front end, and the metal AA badge is a delightful period touch. It is just one of the many pieces of chrome on this lovely old car and we are pleased to report that it is generally in fine fettle. We would however stock up on chrome cleaner…

The painted wheels bear some marks around the edges, so the fastidious may wish to have them repainted. The tyres have plenty of tread but with an older classic that covers few miles, it is often best to replace rubber fairly regularly.

It’s the Daimler interior that lifts it above its Jaguar stablemates. Lashing of wood and acres of leather give the car a luxury feel.

The red hue contrasts nicely to the rather sombre exterior and for a car rapidly heading towards its 60th birthday, it is all in decent order.

The leather seats are gently creased and apart from a tear in the top of the driver’s seat, are in good order. They do look as though some hide food would not go amiss to nourish and protect.

The back of the front seats do bear some marks, no doubt from the feet of those luxuriating in the rear.

Door cards are similarly finished in red, and we note the one to rear offside is starting to come adrift.

The wood trim has plenty of sparkle, suggesting the Daimler has been kept out of bright sunshine when not in use.

Carpets, yes red too, complete the interior story and other than a quick vacuum, they look good.

The boot does show some battle scars from years of moving luggage, though could be easily improved. Beneath the floor hides the spare wheel, a rather tired and jaded offering.

We always include plenty of pictures of our cars’ undersides and we must say this Daimler rather impresses. Clearly well protected with quality underseal, we can see nothing that would cause us any concern.

The engine compartment too is similarly neat and tidy and has clearly been cared for over the years.

And that lovely V8 motor starts on the button and settles down to a hushed, some would say purring idle. Combined with the automatic gearbox, this is a car to waft about in.

From our brief drive, we would mention that the brakes feel a little weak, possibly in need of a bleed or perhaps some new pads.

Almost £46,000! Yes, let’s reiterate that figure. That’s how much was spent some 25 years ago restoring this car to as new condition. The invoices are in our picture gallery for your delectation. Pause a while and take it all in.

We also note that a dynamo to alternator conversion took place in 2008, a sensible upgrade.

There are also some large, yet sporadic bills for servicing and general maintenance.

We would also mention that the automatic gearbox was rebuilt last year (cost £1,562.40).

In amongst the paperwork, you will also find a large collection of old MoT certificates which help to confirm the car’s mileage. We can see that since 2005, less than 10,000 miles have been travelled.

The current MoT is valid until 11th June next year and we note that for the past few years, the testers have not found anything to put on the advisory list – impressive.

Back in the day, a Daimler V8 was probably piloted by some rather rakish chap. Think blazer and cravat, handlebar moustache maybe… The sort whose company you would doubtless enjoy on a night out, yet perhaps would be less impressed if introduced as your prospective son in law!

Times have changed and now we see the Daimler V8 as a rather classy period motorcar and one that for some reason generally sells for less than its Jaguar equivalent. What a travesty, as that V8 is really rather special, the interior a cut above the Jag and they are a much rarer car too.

We feel this car has been well looked after since that massive rebuild and is undoubtedly ready for exciting new adventures.

We estimate the car will sell for between £15,000 and £21,000, a small price for such luxury.

Viewing is always encouraged, within government guidelines of course. The car is located at our Abingdon headquarters; we are open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing to make an appointment. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.