1952 Daimler Sports Special – SOLDJohn2019-11-10T17:03:40+00:00
1952 Daimler Barker Sports Special (3-Seater) … Sold
This Special-bodied Daimler motorcar has had a ground up restoration and when completed was the centrefold in Practical Classics magazine. A truly elegant open top tourer and a very rare piece of British motoring history.
Acquired by last owner in 2006 in a dismantled state from a fellow DLOC enthusiast. The latter had purchased the car when it was only ten years old and decided to strip it down but never got round to reassembling it. Some 40 years later he agreed to sell it, still in bits, to the last keeper.
Being a retired Motor Engineer he set about a total rebuild working many long hours with his son, burning the midnight oil, it was back on the road in 2007 when it was featured in a Practical Classics centrefold feature (copy included in History Folder)
The engine was removed and a plate on the back showed it had been totally rebuilt by Daimler just 300 miles before being taken off the road. It was therefore in excellent condition, only requiring bores re-honing and new set of rings. Was also modified to run on unleaded fuel.
The bodywork proved to be very solid and was re-cellulosed with 8/10 coats of paint and lacquer. It still looks flawless today in Opalescent Silver Blue over Georgian Silver.
Other works include:-
New Hood, re-upholstered hide interior, radiator re-cored and upgraded with 4 rows instead of 3, hence it now runs cool in the hottest weather. New polished wood steering wheel. Chassis, brakes, steering and suspension cleaned, serviced and painted.
Since completion it has been used for classic shows and as an occasional wedding car. And it has been meticulously maintained and further improved, recent works include new steering box, lower swivels, carbs overhauled.
Comes with original buff logbook. V5, Mot to Aug 2020 although now exempt from such things. Original number plate valued between £3000 and £4000!
For more info on this exclusive car, call or text John on 07909 231414. Car is located in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire. Transport can be arranged at ony £1 pr/mile (one way charged)
Marque Info
The Daimler Special Sports is based upon the post war DB18 chassis with several important modifications, the most notable being an overdrive gearbox, high ratio differential, hydro/mechanical brakes, alloy cylinder head and twin carburettors. The standard DB18 chassis had built in jacks, an automatic lubrication system and heater as standard, which also feature on this car.
The title Special Sports is a misnomer, the car should rightly be regarded as a comfortable high speed touring car. Seasoned ash frame, upholstered seats, thick Wilton carpet and beautifully crafted wooden trim. This is an extremely comfortable drop top, with superb seating up front for 2 plus 1 transverse adult seat in the rear and masses of luggage space (the single rear seat is removable if more luggage space is required) Makes everyone smile as you pass by.
The car will comfortably cruise at 60mph plus and is easily capable of motorway speeds. The long wheelbase and excellent suspension, independent at the front, iron out the bumps and give the car a lovely long legged ride. The chassis of the DB18 range rarely give cause for concern, they are built of high grade steel and well engineered.
