Daimler SP250

Daimler SP250
Considering the Damiler line-up of the time, the SP250 was a complete break from Daimler tradition. Sure, there was a slight resemblance to the 2.5 litre six cylinder Conquest roadster of 1953, but the minute you sat behind the wheel of the SP250 you knew the family connection was only as a resemblance - and certainly not of any substance.

In 1959 the SP250 presented as a thoroughly modern sports car, typically British in presentation with padded leather overlay, twin dial instruments directly in front of the driver, and a central minor gauge and switch-gear panel.

The front seats were naturally finished in dead cow, and even a leather steering wheel was available as an option. The rear bench seat was really only for small children, or if you were game you could sit sideways for a short time.

The optional adjustable steering, combined with the adjustable seating ensured the driver could find the best possible driving position so that they could fully enjoy the sweet spinning V8 engine, and well sorted chassis.

In fact, the main criticism when the SP250 was released was reserved for the headlight dimmer switch, it being located on the floor and, as a consequence, made vigorous night driving a chore as your left foot was forced away from the clutch pedal.

A-spec
The original A-spec version could do , but the chassis, a “14-gauge ladder frame with cruciform bracing” based on the Triumph TR3, flexed so much that doors came open, marring its reputation.. Bumpers (fenders) were originally an optional extra.

B-spec
Jaguar bought Daimler in 1960, and were immediately concerned about the chassis flex. They brought out the B-spec version with extra outriggers on the chassis and a strengthening hoop between the A posts. There were also other detail improvements, including an adjustable steering column.

C-spec
There was a C-spec version introduced in 1963 with some additional luxuries as standard equipment.

2,645 were produced.

Jaguar built a prototype replacement (known as the SP252) with a neater body style but decided not to proceed with production.

Ogle Design produced a coupé version called the SX250, but this was not taken up by Daimler and the body design was later used for the Reliant Scimitar.

Specification
ENGINE: V type, eight cylinder, water cooled, OHV, Bore , Stroke , Capacity 153 cubic inches (2547 cc) Single high camshaft operated valves through short alloy pushrods. Double heavy duty valve springs. Aluminium alloy hemispherical cylinder heads. Stiff 5 main bearing crankshaft, dynamically balanced. Compression ratio 8.2:1 Twin SU carburettors. bhp 140 @ 5800 rpm. Max Torque at 3600 rpm. SU electric fuel pump.
IGNITION: Coil and distributor with auto and vacuum control.
LUBRICATION: Submerged gear type oil pump. Full flow filter. Sump capacity 1.75 US gallons.
COOLING SYSTEM: Pressurised radiator with fan, pump and thermostat control.
TRANSMISSION: 4 speeds with synchromesh on top three ratios. Provision for overdrive. Automatic optional.
REAR AXLE: Hypoid bevel 3.58:1
STEERING: Cam type.
SUSPENSION: Independent front with coil springs. Half elliptics at rear. Oversize dampers.
BRAKES: Discs on all four wheels, hydraulic operation.