1961 Daimler SP250 Dart V8 Roadster with Hardtop Race Car

Originally known as the Daimler Dart, this model name was first applied to what would later be officially recognised as the Daimler SP250 — one of the most distinctive and technically interesting British sports cars of the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Built by The Daimler Company Limited in Coventry between 1959 and 1964, the Dart was conceived as a compact two-seat sports car combining lightweight fibreglass bodywork with Daimler’s advanced 2.5-litre V8 engine. The result was a characterful and capable roadster, offering strong performance for its size and a specification that set it apart from many of its contemporaries. The model made its public debut at the 1959 New York Motor Show under the 'Dart' name, although legal pressure from Chrysler - who held the rights to the Dart name in the United States - prompted Daimler to adopt the SP250 designation shortly thereafter.

This particular example is a 1962 Daimler Dart SP250 V8 race car and is a well-known car within historic club racing circles. Associated with the registration 150 DLA, it has long been recognised as a competition Dart and is frequently seen in period-style racing livery, finished in white with red striping.

Previously owned and raced by Piers Townsend, the car competed extensively at UK circuits and became a familiar sight on historic grids, with appearances in series including the HRDC Allstars and events at venues such as Donington Park.

Now emerging after several years in storage, the car remains in race-prepared specification, featuring a competition chassis with uprated suspension and brakes, roll cage, harnesses, and a dual-exhaust system. Most recently, it was displayed on the Daimler SP Owners Club stand at the NEC Classic Motor Show, where it attracted considerable interest.

The car is accompanied by a large and important history file, which includes buff-style log books, period FIA passports, and supporting documentation that underlines its long-standing competition use and provenance.

As with any competition car, it is necessary to check the suitability and currency of any safety related equipment: seats, harness, cage, tank and fire extinguisher etc.

An interesting, well-documented and recognisable competition Daimler, this SP250 represents a rare opportunity to recommission a known historic racer with period credentials and clear potential for a return to the track.