Introduction
Colin Bashford
Pure romance, a unique part of British motoring heritage, untouched for 42 years!
Launched at the New York Motor Show in 1959 as the Daimler "Dart", the SP250 was aimed squarely at the US market where British made sports cars were enjoying significant sales. It was the last car manufactured by Daimler before BSA, it's parent company, was sold to Jaguar in 1960. The Dart name was quickly dropped following the threat of legal action from Chrysler, who had the name reserved for their own vehicles, and in the panic that followed Daimler promptly reverted the the SP250 model number.
With a V8 from a prestigious British car maker, 0-60 in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 123MPH, the model had many of the ingredients buyers wanted. However, the styling and the use of the fibreglass body were controversial and polarised opinion. Interestingly the cars were used as pursuit vehicles by a number of UK, New Zealand and Australian police forces and were used for motorway patrol at the opening of the M1 in 1959.
This car is a 1963 "C" specification model and is, without doubt, a challenge requiring full restoration. Last taxed in 1980, the car appears to have been off the road and largely untouched for 42 years. What a fantastic project though. It's rare, has interesting history, appears unmodified and, once completed offers great performance and kerb appeal. With strong club and enthusiast support, this is an opportunity to revive an incredible part of British motoring history. Sit down, take a deep breath, take a good look at the photos and videos, consider the art of the possible!
This auction listing was written from information supplied by Colin after meeting Ian the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.
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We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.
Full Transparency
8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.
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I WANT ONEAsk Questions
Hi there, do you have the missing grill surround and front bumper etc, and is there a hard top. Let me know please, thanks Rob.
Yes the grill surround is there and in one of the photos with the front bumper, mounting frame and hard top along with spot and fog lights as original, there is also the Stratsone dealer label with the paperwork originally glued to passenger door sill, go to exterior photos and all can be seen just above the interior video
Vehicle Location
Helensburgh, Argyll and Bute
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