Lot 022: 1936 DAIMLER LIGHT TWENTY SPORTS SALOON

Able to call upon the engineering talents of such luminaries as Laurence Pomeroy and George Lanchester, Daimler enjoyed a hard won reputation for quality and innovation during the 1930s. Introduced in July 1935, the Daimler Light 20 was based around an elegantly wrought latticework box-section chassis that was notable for its torsional rigidity. Equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, Girling mechanical drum brakes and an underslung worm-drive rear axle, the newcomer was powered by a 2565cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed pre-selector transmission (the latter incorporating Daimler's famously advanced fluid flywheel). Reputedly capable of 68mph and over 20mpg, the Light 20 was built to a standard that befitted the holders of a Royal Warrant. Available in a variety of bodystyles including saloon, sports saloon, fixed head coupe and drophead coupe, production is thought to have totaled less than 900 cars (though, today survivors are somewhat scarce). Although, its early history is unknown this particular example carries the West Sussex registration number 'CBP 814'. While, other links to that county comprise a Wades of Worthing St Christopher dash plaque and a Thomas Harrington of Sussex tax disc holder. Still resident near the South Coast in 1949 when it belonged to a Lt Col Herbert Baker, the Daimler changed hands several times before entering the current ownership during 1993. Building on previous restoration work, the last fifteen years have seen the Light 20 benefit from the following: new petrol pipes / flushed tank (1994), flashing indicators / new rear lights (1995), new floorboards / front door backing panels (1996) and a bare metal respray (1997). To the interior, the vendor notes that "the back seat and door panels are in good original condition for the age of the car. The two front seats require sympathetic restoration and the carpets need renewing". Though, apparently the "headlining was replaced approximately three years ago and is in very good condition". As well as an extra radiator and electric fan fitted to the underneath of the offside front wing some ten years ago, the engine is understood to have been recently treated to a top-end overhaul (decoke / valves ground-in), cleaned out cylinder block and sundry replacement core plugs. Used for various family weddings and a participant in the Daimler Centenary Rally, 'CBP 814' has reportedly covered "just over 1,000 miles" during the current stewardship. Elegant yet understated, this appealing Daimler Light 20 is offered for sale with assorted paperwork, reconditioned oil temperature gauge (the present incumbent is prone to sticking) and MOT certificate / historic class (free) road tax both valid until January 2009.