Owning a Daimler SP250

Graham Instrell

‘I remember SP250S vividly from my youth,’ says Graham Instrell, ‘but decided to buy one after seeing one on track at the Goodwood Revival. I got mine in 2016 and, to be honest, I’ve never had to do any major work on it because the previous owner restored it back in 1999. Luckily he did a great job because it’s still in extremely good condition today.

‘Parts are readily available and I do the annual servicing myself. It’s just a case of popping it up on an inspection ramp and everything is accessible. I wouldn’t say it’s any more difficult to maintain than other classic cars of this type and era – so long as you buy one in good condition and maintain it, running costs can be kept relatively low.

‘The driving experience is all about the V8, for me. You can cruise around all day in top gear – it’s such a brilliant engine, you rarely need to change gear! It shows its age in other ways though. The steering is heavy at parking speed for instance.

‘It’s not the most practical of classics, I suppose. I also have a Porsche 928 – similar appeal with its big lazy V8 engine - and tend to use it a lot more. But the Daimler comes out when the sun shines. It is a brilliant car for summer cruising. ‘It’s definitely a keeper. I’m a member of the superb Daimler and Lanchester Owner’s Club. There’s a dedicated group for SP250 owners, so we are well catered for by specialists and fellow enthusiasts. There is a great magazine too, which provides some very useful information and experience. Plus, of course, a great bunch of people to spend time with!’