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Features
• A Veloce classic reformatted and republished for today's enthusists
• The only book available on the Daimler V8 sports car
• As a luxury car maker, SP 250 represents Daimler’s first real foray into the sports car market
• Interviews with the people behind the car
• Contemporary photography and an unrivalled level of detail
Description
The fascinating story of Daimler’s daring glass fibre sports car, including its commercial feasibility at the time, and key role in Daimler’s future, its development, production, and the proposal that could have seen it built into the 1970s. A bold new design, the 'Dart', as it was originally to be called, should have been Daimler’s saviour and a springboard to a range of new models, including saloons and coupés. Sadly, Jaguar – a company with its own sports cars – bought Daimler before the car was allowed to evolve. Contains contemporary material and photography throughout to help owners seeking to restore their vehicles in period guise.
Synopsis
Today very much part of the classic car scene around the world, the Daimler SP250 sports car has a fascinating and eventful history. The idea of staid and traditional Daimler building an open sports car is surprising enough in itself: that the car should be fibreglass-bodied, V8 engined and have a daring futuristic appearance stretches credibility to the limit ... but that’s exactly what the company did produce between 1959 and 1964. A bold new design, the “Dart” as it was originally to be called, should have been struggling Daimler’s saviour and a springboard to a range of new models, including saloons and coupes. Things didn’t quite work out that way and Daimler was acquired by Jaguar, which led to the SP 250’s Edward Turner-designed V8 engine being used in a Daimler-badged version of the Jaguar Mkll saloon. Here is the full story of the SP 250 including concept, development and production history. Also covered are related models, specials, buying and restoration, chassis numbers, production numbers, colour schemes, clubs and specialists. Altogether a source book of essential information for SP 250 and Daimler enthusiasts.
Independent Reviews
"Brian Long is undoubtedly the finest author of aII things Daimler and has done a mighty fine job of his latest tome. There are 192 pages of compelling reading here – don't miss it." – Jaguar magazine, Australia
"Learned words and evocative pictures ooze period charm." – The Caravan Club Magazine
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"... another very good piece of work. A recommended read." – New Zealand Classic Car
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"It's extremely well illustrated, mainly with period b&w shots, and tackles every aspect of the SP250 story – development production, competition, specials and much more. A lot of the information will be invaluable for restorers, and the price is reasonable for a niche product." – Octane
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"... does a good job of chronicling the short-lived model's life and evolution. It's very well illustrated with period photographs, including many factory shots and publicity material of the time." – Classic Cars
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"It is good to have a second, updated and greatly improved edition of Brian Long's seminal work for Veloce of the development of Daimler's quirky and engaging sports car the SP250." – Gay Classic Car Group
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"The early photos have been carefully researched to give you a wonderful feeling of involvement with this lovely and rare Daimler." – Australian Classic Car
"I always judge the success of such a book on whether it has made me regret never having owned such a model. Actually, I wish I had had the chance just to drive one, let alone own one. It's a good read." – The Automobile
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