|
The Daimler Fifteen was introduced in 1932, utilising a new 1805 cc, straight-six engine (with a British tax rating of 15 hp, giving the car its name). This engine used a conventional overhead valve train, rather than Daimler’s usual (to that point) sleeve-valve system, driving through a pre-selector gearbox. Lively performance was not the goal, rather smooth and silent progress. Whilst Daimler provided the chassis and motive force, the various body styles available were made by separate coachbuilding companies, although the majority were bodied by Mulliners of Birmingham, whose designs appeared in the Daimler catalogue.
In 1935, the engine size was increased to 2003 cc (the stroke was lengthened and cylinder head re-designed) which resulted in a claimed 45 bhp @3,600 rpm. For the 2 year period to December 1935, it is believed 3,311 examples were built. The model range lived on until 1940, receiving a further increase in engine capacity and some chassis re-working. Production re-commenced after the Second World War, although the car was now known as the Daimler 18.
This elegant Mulliner-bodied Sports Coupe was first registered in the UK in March 1935. We have little of its subsequent history until 1980, when we know it was purchased by a Belgian collector, who undertook a “nut & bolt Concours restoration”. The Daimler was offered for sale in 2019 as a result of downsizing his collection and purchased by its current Jersey-based owner later that year. The vehicle has subsequently been kept garaged and in excellent condition.
|
