Estimated Price: £13,000 - £18,000

Background:

From 1973, coachbuilders Vanden Plas were appointed to finish off the most up-market XJ model (Daimler only) with their higher quality trim and the cars have always been a rarity — especially the HE (higher efficiency) model, which was only available for about a year. For the 1983 model 'Series 3', the quality standard of the XJ improved dramatically, including the Daimler, so the arrangement with Vanden Plas officially ceased that year. However, a handful of 1983 quality cars were still finished by Vanden Plas and this is a very rare, if not unique, survivor.

The Car:

This beautiful 1983 Daimler Double Six offered here is believed to be one of only two remaining of the 140 built. The distinctive registration number was issued to the car from new.

Beautifully specified in Claret over the (unique to Vanden Plas) chamois leather interior. The beautiful leather survives in honest condition and still features its Claret piping. The wood veneers have been restored at some stage and present well, as do the original Kent alloy wheels. The underside was rust-treated and protected in the last ten years and as such looks very solid.

The car is accompanied by a thick history file chronicling its period being looked after by credible specialist garages, with many invoices to back up work carried out. The service book is also stamped through to the covers, further backing up how well each custodian has cared for the car. This has continued and the most recent stamp was in October last year.

Mileage is 72,500 from new. There is an original Vanden Plas first aid kit accompanying the large and small toolkits.

A very driveable collector’s item and stunning looking throughout.

Location: East Sussex

Seller: Private

Photos: Professional