1950 Daimler DB18 Consort Cabriolet

Highlights

• One off cabriolet conversion not originally sold by Daimler
• Smart cream paintwork with obvious commercial potential
• Thoroughly renovated from chassis up in the 1990s
• Recently fitted with fully reconditioned ex-armoured car engine
• Recently used for various film productions

The Appeal

The Consort was the export-only version of Daimler’s illustrious DB18 21/2 litre saloon, a model favoured by the cream of society, such as Winston Churchill. This unique 1950s grand tourer was likely converted in a much later decade making it ideal for use in Britains former colonies. Spacious cabin with vast rear legroom.

According to DVLA records, it returned to the UK in 1970. It appears to have been repainted in 2021 and is now finished in a smart cream, a colour with obvious commercial potential. The condition across the paintwork and tidy tobacco-coloured leather interior is very presentable, and we’re not surprised to learn it has been used regularly for film and TV work.

We’re told that in recent years the engine has been extensively overhauled. The fuel, cooling, electrics and brake systems have also received attention. Reported to be in fine running order, this stylish and unusual post-war coachbuilt classic offers interesting personal and commercial opportunities.

The vendor says:

“Daimler quality, but its not a huge barge, although often mistaken for a Bentley or Armstrong Siddeley Hurricane. Tax and Ulez free, easy to drive like a more modern car, even for the wife! Originally intended for sporting owner drivers and continental touring, rather than the chauffeured carriage trade. Timeless elegance in a sporty grand touring style. Ideal for Classic Rallys and summer fun.”

History and Paperwork

• Registered in 1950
• First UK registered 1st October 1970
• Three UK keepers in UK
• Current keeper since September 2021
• DVLA records colour change in 2021 but change may have been recorded incorrectly
• VIN number 57126
• Believed to have been originally exported to a former British colony
• Post-production conversion to drophead coupe format of unknown date
• Designed for service in hot climates
• Thoroughly renovated from chassis up in the 1990s after long-term storage
• Recently used for various film productions
• V5C
• Registered as a Historic Vehicle so tax, MOT and potentially ULEZ exempt
• Factory handbooks, manuals, magazine and book
• Owner happy to assist with delivery uk or a port

The vendor says:

“Daimler is the oldest British car maker (previously called 'The Horseless Carriage Co.' ), the original Royal car maker holding the Royal Warrant from 1900 to 1960 (before RR and Jaguar days). This is a post-production conversion of unknown date. Daimler did not sell this as a drophead coupe, so it's unique in this roll-back hood format. Designed for service in a hot climate. It's thought early years were spent in the former colonies. Thoroughly renovated from chassis up in the 1990s after coming out of long-term storage. Recent history includes use for various film hires.”

The Condition

• Cream paintwork in good general condition with some age to note
• Vendor reports some marks, chips, and small area of crazing on right front wing
• Convertible roof takes two minutes to roll back we are told
• Weatherproof but faded hood
• Doors has detachable sidescreens (flat perspex, lightly scratched)
• No body damage or corrosion visible according to seller
• Chassis and body frame underneath appear in smart condition
• Chrome grille, headlamps, and bumpers look in very good order with light age
• Doors have removable doctor/medical transfer emblem from film job
• Royal Shield emblems (seen in some photos) no longer attached
• Currently features a period Egyptian chrome mascot
• Fold-out spare wheel access panel is a new stock item
• Tobacco-coloured leather interior in fair condition with some patination
• Good carpets throughout according to seller
• Spacious interior with wear to driver’s seat
• Front passenger seat presents well (different folding type for rear access)
• Dashboard looks smart and we’re told has been treated for woodworm)
• Wood floors and trims all good or new
• Spare front seats and spare dashboard included
• Well kept steering wheel and instruments
• Vendor reports heater is very effective
• Modern additions: flasher indicators, battery isolator, electric cooling fan, seatbelt mountings

The Mechanics

• 2,522cc straight six engine capacity
• Wilson semi-automatic transmission with 4 gears
• Recently fitted with fully reconditioned ex-armoured car engine
• Renewed/overhauled cooling, charging, braking, and fuel systems
• Complete stainless steel exhaust fitted
• Smooth power delivery with good brakes reported
• Starts instantly and runs quietly, whether hot or cold according to seller
• Smooth and simple gear selection with positive steering for its era we are told
• Pre-select auto gearbox is reported to be in fine fettle
• Powerful torque allows cruising from 5 to 80 mph in top gear we are told

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