1985 DAIMLER SERIES III 4.2

This Daimler Series III is a superb example of the luxury 1980s saloon, presented with low mileage and with a comprehensive ownership history. Under the bonnet is the 4.2-litre ‘XK6’ straight-six, producing around 205bhp, coupled to a three-speed Borg Warner automatic transmission. The odometer indicates 70,275 miles, which is believed to be correct.

An original UK market car, this right-hand drive example was first registered in January 1986, so is among the very latest examples built. It was marketed in the UK simply as a ‘Daimer’ because the Sovereign nameplate was then applied to the Jaguar XJ6. The car was acquired by the seller’s father in 2010, and was subsequently exported to the Netherlands. It has been registered in the son’s name for the last two years.

Today, its bodywork and paint are reported to be in excellent condition for its age. The only known previous damage to the panels was along the right-hand flank, mostly on the driver’s door, which has subsequently been professionally repaired and repainted. There is also a small dent in the left-hand rear door. The seller reports that the car has “the usual small scratches and chips”, but as the photo gallery shows, this Daimler presents very well indeed.

Turning to the interior, the Savile Grey leather appears to be original, and it wears its age and mileage well. There is some wear and discolouration on the driver’s side bolster in particular, and minor creasing and signs of use elsewhere, but in general it has a smart patina throughout. The well-appointed cabin also benefits from the addition of the optional sunroof and cruise control. When the headlights are switched on, a warning light for the lamps shows on the dashboard; however, all of the lights work as they should. Other than this, there are no other faults or electrical foibles.

The car is reported to be in very good mechanical condition, starting and running well on the road. The last two services in the Netherlands were performed at 67,032 miles and 65,875 miles. The seller states that the last safety inspection was carried out in the Netherlands in March 2020, and that there were no warnings or alerts about the car’s condition.

Its last MOT test prior to export was on 9 November 2009 at 60,010 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories, further supporting this car’s impressive mechanical condition. The wheels are fitted with a set of matching Pirelli P4000 Super Touring tyres.

Accompanying this Daimler is the original owner's handbook, the service record and warranty booklet, and guarantee paperwork. There is also a raft of invoices and receipts for service and maintenance work, as well as old MOT certificates. The original tool case is also present, which appears to be complete.

This Daimler Series III is an excellent example of a handsome and refined saloon. It retains its original factory colours, and boasts fantastic original details throughout. The mileage is believed to be correct, and there is a good record of the service history from new. It also benefits from exceptionally well-documented provenance, with a complete record of ownership changes - something that is increasingly hard to find on cars of this age. It is ready to drive and enjoy, and would make a fine weekend tourer or practical classic for longer road trips.

Summary of service history:

• 26/02/1986 - 1,148 miles
• 05/02/1987 - 11,053 miles
• 05/11/1987 - 14,250 miles
• 13/04/1988 - 17,662 miles
• 08/03/1989 - 23,160 miles
• 05/03/1990 - 28,006 miles
• 05/11/1993 - 34,446 miles
• 19/06/1996 - 41,629 miles
• 01/02/2005 - 47,332 miles
• 12/10/2006 - 53,149 miles
• 05/06/2010 - Mileage not recorded
• 11/03/2011 - 62,763 miles 
• 16/03/2013 - 65,875 miles 
• 20/03/2015 - 67,032 miles

As this car is offered for sale from continental Europe, it has not been run through Collecting Cars’ standard online HPI check process. However, this car was registered in the UK between 1986 and early 2010, and the HPI results for this period show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and no finance owing.