One of the ugliest, catfish-faced designs to come out of England.
1963 Daimler SP250 Roadster by J.A. Ackley
Feb 15, 2024
Photography Courtesy Bonhams
It’s not that Daimler and it’s not that Hemi, but this is a Daimler roadster with a hemi engine. Because wouldn’t a roadster with a hemi engine be the hot ticket?
The Daimler refers to the now-defunct Daimler Company based in the U.K. It’s not the same Daimler-Benz that would merge with Chrysler and once again popularize the Hemi engine. However, Gottlieb Daimler is the namesake for both, although Daimler Company bought the rights to the name of the automotive pioneer. Ironically, the Daimler Company launched the SP250 in the North American market as the Dart, much to the chagrin of Chrysler.
Under the hood is a 2.5-liter hemi-head V8 created by Edward Turner, who’s better known as a motorcycle designer. The engine put out 142 horsepower, which propelled the SP250 to a top speed of 125 mph. The SP250 also came with four-wheel disc brakes, a rare feature for the day, and used a ladder-type chassis.
Find this 1963 Daimler SP250 Roadster up for auction at Bonhams. As a point of reference, Hagerty currently values an SP250 in No. 2 condition at $51,100.
One of the ugliest, catfish-faced designs to come out of England.
In reply to mcloud :
Definitely has some divisive looks. I'm not sure which side of the fence I'm on, but it certainly has a different look than many roadsters of the era.
Yes unusual but a rarity and take off the front and rear bumpers and its a fine 60's sports car with an amazingly versatile engine. Goes like the clappers, road holding not so much !
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Price
Price upon request
Color
Blue
