THE CAR

Daimler is one of the few manufacturers who has been involved with motoring since the birth of the industry. Their designs and quality of workmanship led to a lengthy association with English Royalty as supplier of choice.

This is an exquisite example of the marque, this 1951 Daimler DB18 Special Sports is the highly desirable drophead coupe variety.

First registered in South Australia in April 1952, it is a two owner car that was completely restored between 2006 and 2010.

With an aluminium body, this is one of approximately 608 produced and is finished in two-tone Westminster Blue and Silver Grey with grey leather interior and suicide doors.

Powered by a 2.5 litre straight 6 cylinder engine with twin SU carburettors that put out 85 BHP and acceleration beyond 80mph.

These cars were ahead of their time employing a 4-speed transmission (3 with overdrive) with fluid flywheel and epicyclic preselector gearbox. These transmissions were the pre-cursor to modern automatic gearboxes.

Other mechanical goodies include independent front suspension, live rear axle with half elliptic leaf springs and Girling hydro-mechanically operated drum brakes.

The coachwork is by Barker & Co Ltd, in the rear there is a unique sideways facing single rear seat which can be swapped from side to side. The chrome and brightwork are in outstanding condition.

The extensive service and restoration history is to hand and there are spare parts that go with the vehicle.

 

The car has won many awards including:

2011 Daimler Lanchester Club Victoria Display Day - Lumley’s Special Vehicles People’s Choice

2011 Daimler Lanchester Club Victoria Display Day - Lumley’s Special Vehicles Ladies Choice

2011 Daimler Lanchester Club Victoria Display Day - Pursuit of Excellence Trophy

2012 Daimler National Rally at Ballarat, Vic -  Jennifer Muddiman Memorial Trophy Best DB18

2012 Daimler National Rally at Ballarat, Vic -  RACV Award Best Post War Vehicle

2012 Daimler National Rally at Ballarat, Vic -  National Rally Champion

2012 RACV Heritage Car Series - Displayed in foyer of RACV HQ, Bourke St., Melbourne - 6 weeks

2013 HMAS Cerberus Open Day - Best Display Vehicle

2014 Daimler National Rally at Loxton, SA - Best Car 1950-1960

2017 Daimler Lanchester Club Victoria Display Day - Ladies Choice

2018 Daimler National Rally at Healesville, Vic - Best Special Sports

2018 Flinders Motoring Heritage Day - Special Judges Award (presented by Allan Moffat)

 

The current owner stopped entering the car into judging in 2018.

A rare and stunning example.