1937 Daimler E20 Sedan
 
With only approximately 35 Daimler Light 20’s left in existence worldwide, this is a very special car with only 80,000 genuine miles since new and only a handful of owners.
 
The Light 20 or chassis E20 model Daimler was manufactured from 1935 and offered a variety of bodies styles from Coachbuilt Saloom, Sports Saloon, Fixedhead Coupe and Drophead Coupe bodies. The Chassis was on a notably stiff box section chassis that featured integral lubrication and jacking systems. Powering the Daimler was a 2,565cc OHV straight six engine with a RAC rating of 19.3HP mated to a 4 speed Willson Pre-Selector Gearbox with Daimlers patented ‘Fluid Flywheel’. This was sufficient to achieve a speed upto 70mph. Suspension was semi-elliptic springs and beam axles all round and braking was handled by Girling servo-assisted drums.
Total production at the time was some 873 in which is thought only 35 survive worldwide today making in an extremely rare car today.
 
Most notably on this era of Daimler with the Wilson Preselector Gearbox & Fluid Flywheel is the ability to leave the car in gear with the clutch depressed at a standstill without stalling the car. As the accelerator is pushed, the ‘Fluid Flywheel’ engages, moving the car forward. Unlike most other prewar cars (or other manual cars for that matter), gear changes are incredibly smooth and easy (video up shortly on how to drive a preselector gearbox).
 
The Daimler we have here was delivered new in Aberdeen, Scotland but was not used much until after WW2. Dr Laidlaw migrated to Australia in 1966 and bought the Daimler with in which previously belonged to his father. He apparently returned to Scotland in which subsequently the Daimler has had 4 owners since.
 
The Daimler is in largely original condition and showing a well-used but nice patina for a car that is 86 years old. Chrome work is generally in good condition and no rust has been found on the body or the chassis. The interior has been sympathetically restored with the leather seats and carpets replaced at some point. All of the wood work is in very good condition.
 
To drive the Daimler on the open road is a breeze with the Wilson 4 speed Pre-selector gearbox and Daimler’s famous fluid flywheel. The 6 cylinder 2,565cc Daimler engine gives effortless power to this pre war car and can achieve highway speeds if needed. The engine was said to have been overhauled at around 73,000 miles which can be felt by the ease of starting and general smoothness of the engine.
 
Some recommissioning work will need to be done for roadworthy however given the rarity of the car, is well worth while!
The Daimler comes with an instruction manual, parts manual and service history. Sold without registration or RWC.
This is a unique opportunity to acquire a rare Daimler with known history since new.
 
Walk Around Video