1939 Daimler EL24 De Ville
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Year of manufacture1939
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Car typeOther
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Lot numberTBA
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DriveRHD
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ConditionUsed
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Location
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Exterior colourOther
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GearboxManual
Description
"Produced from 1937 to 1939, the Daimler EL24 range was based on a Daimler rolling chassis, on which various coach builders fitted a variety of body styles from saloons and limousines to fixedhead and drophead coupé. The light limousine, as here, was usually bodied by Charlesworth and proved popular as Mayoral transport. The chassis was of a latticework box section with a special cruciform centre bracing which gave exceptional torsional stiffness. It also featured a built-in lubrication and jacking system with ‘Gilt Edge’ safety glass fitted throughout. Power came from a 3.3 litre straight-six rated at 23.8hp with push-rod operated overhead valves operated by a chain driven high clearance cam, a seven bearing crankshaft with a torsional vibration damper, SU carburettor and mechanical petrol pump. Depending on body style, the car had a top speed of around 73mph and 20-25mpg economy. Transmission was via a four-speed pre-selector gearbox with Daimler fluid flywheel and direct drive top gear. Suspension was by beam axles with semi-elliptic springs, a pair of radius rods at the front and Luvax shock absorbers. Brakes were Girling mechanical with a Dewandre servo. In all just 710 examples of all body types were made.
This handsome example of this British classic is finished in the rather regal colour of red exterior with burgundy leather interior, complemented by the modern addition of a sunroof which is wonderful for those warm sunny days when touring. This particular car was built in 1939 and has the Light Limousine body work with coachwork by Charlesworth, due to World War II factory bomb damage the car was not registered until 1950. Apparently four cars were destroyed when being shipped abroad, this one remained in the UK which makes this a rare model. It is believed to be one of five built for Embassy minor staff although this is not substantiated. The present owner purchased the car in 1997 and he commenced with a complete rebuild, inside and out, in 1998/1999 carried out by Classic Refinishes. The current vendor states about £30,000 has been spent on the car during his tenure, including the redesigned sun roof. A fun car to take to events such as Goodwood or Ascot or just to go out for a drive.
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