Description
The Daimler DB18 Special Sports by Barker was one of the most refined and elegant post-war British open tourers, produced between 1948 and 1953. This model marked Daimler’s reentry into the luxury market after World War II, offering a car that combined traditional craftsmanship with modern styling and improved performance. It was a significant departure from the more conservative saloon designs, aimed at customers who valued both prestige and the pleasures of open-air motoring.
At the heart of the Special Sports was Daimler’s familiar 2.5-litre inline-six engine. In this version, it was upgraded with twin SU carburettors, which gave the car improved breathing and a modest boost in power over the standard DB18 saloon. While exact power figures were never aggressively marketed, the car offered smoother acceleration and better highway cruising capabilities, making it suitable for both urban and touring use.
A notable mechanical feature was the use of Daimler’s pre-selector gearbox with a fluid flywheel. Though somewhat unconventional compared to standard manual transmissions, this system allowed the driver to select gears in advance and then engage them with the press of a foot pedal, resulting in smooth, near-seamless changes. It was a hallmark of Daimler engineering in the period and contributed to the car’s reputation for refined driving manners.
The bodywork was designed and built by Barker & Co., one of Britain’s most respected coachbuilders and a long-time Daimler collaborator. The styling was graceful and distinctly continental in flavour, with flowing lines, a low beltline, sweeping fenders, and a well-integrated convertible top. The front end featured a tall, traditional Daimler fluted grille flanked by faired-in headlamps, while the rear tapered elegantly with a modest luggage compartment and rear-mounted spare.
The Drophead Coupé configuration offered a folding soft-top roof that could be used in three positions: fully closed, half-open (cabriolet mode), or fully retracted. This flexibility gave the car broad appeal for different weather conditions and made it ideal for leisurely touring during the warmer months.
Inside, the Daimler DB18 Special Sports by Barker was outfitted with premium materials. The cabin featured leather upholstery, walnut veneer dashboard and trim, and traditional Smiths instrumentation. Seating was generally in a 2+2 layout, with occasional rear seats that were best suited for short trips or smaller passengers. The atmosphere was that of understated British luxury, with a focus on comfort, craftsmanship, and tradition.
The Special Sports by Barker was offered primarily for export markets, including North America, Australia, and Commonwealth countries, though a number also remained in the UK. The model helped maintain Daimler’s reputation for quality during the early post-war years, particularly among discerning buyers who sought something more exclusive than mass-produced saloons.
Today, the Daimler DB18 Special Sports Barker is a prized classic, appreciated for its rarity, craftsmanship, and elegant design. Surviving examples are often found in concours events and private collections, representing a graceful chapter in British motoring history. The combination of Barker’s coachbuilt body and Daimler’s mechanical finesse gives this model a lasting appeal among enthusiasts of 1940s and 1950s luxury cars.