1965 Daimler 250 V8 Saloon

One of >17,600 built between 1962 and 1969, this 1965 car is properly referred to as a Daimler 2.5 V8, while from 1967 on the model was marketed as the Daimler V8-250. The first Jaguar-based Daimler built, the 2.5 V8 was nearly cosmetically identical to its Mark 2 cousin, though keen eyes will detect a different grille, wheels, and other trim details.

This car’s champagne color suits it well, and we prefer the simplicity of its stamped steel wheels and Daimler branded hubcaps over the visual heft of wire wheels commonly fitted to Jaguars with this shape. Note the neat little stylized V8 badge on the trunk lid, as well as the unusual half spats partially obscuring the rear wheels.

It’s not clear how many lhd variants were made, but the true figure certainly represented only a small fraction of total production.

Salmon colored leather really pops and looks as if it could remain original due to its factory style stitching. Excluding its Daimler-badged steering wheel and split bench seat (as opposed to buckets commonly found in Mark 2’s), the interior is largely identical to Jaguar spec, including large, clear Smiths gauges and extensive use of wood veneers.

Up front, the little jewel of a hemi V8 looks fully stock including its unmistakable factory style air cleaner assembly. Fed by twin downdraft SU carbs, the engine’s power was rated at 140 hp at a surprisingly elevated 5,800 rpm, and 150 lb-ft of torque came on at 3,600 revs. Though a manual transmission was optional from 1967, the majority of these cars left the factory with automatics as equipped on the auction car.

This car is offered without known history.

Straight-six Jaguars are wonderful, unique cars with extraordinarily good engines, but there’s something exotic and deeply intriguing about this car’s pocket hemi V8 with Triumph motorcycle-derived heads. Left-hand drive only adds to its interest and utility. Estimated $6,000 - $10,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.