Description

The Daimler 2.5 Litre V8 was a unique and elegant compact luxury saloon produced from 1962 to 1969. It holds a special place in British motoring history as it combined the refined V8 engine from Daimler with the popular and well-handling Jaguar Mark 2 body shell. The result was a car that offered both performance and prestige in a distinctive package.

At the heart of the Daimler 2.5 Litre V8 was its 2.5-litre aluminium-alloy V8 engine, designed by Edward Turner. This engine had already proven itself in the Daimler SP250 sports car and was known for its smoothness, compact size, and lively performance. In the saloon, the V8 produced around 140 bhp and was paired with either a Borg-Warner automatic transmission or, in later years, a manual with optional overdrive. The lightweight engine made the car more agile and better balanced than its Jaguar siblings, especially in cornering.

Visually, the Daimler was nearly identical to the Jaguar Mark 2, but with several distinguishing features. These included a fluted Daimler grille, unique badging, and often more luxurious interior trim. Inside, it offered a high level of comfort with wood veneer, leather upholstery, and a refined driving experience that appealed to those seeking understated class rather than sporty flair.

The car found favour among professionals, dignitaries, and even police forces, thanks to its combination of reliability, performance, and refinement. It also served as a stepping stone for Daimler’s continued integration under Jaguar’s ownership during the 1960s.

Today, the Daimler 2.5 Litre V8 is appreciated as a charming and well-engineered classic. It stands out not just for its rarity, but for its unique blend of Jaguar style and Daimler character. Collectors value its smooth V8 performance and the craftsmanship that defines mid-century British motoring.