Daimler Majestic Major (Diplomatic delivery new) 1966

Chassis no. 137785
Engine number. 94822
Body no. 1078
Mileage: 80,557 miles

Largely regarded as the last true Daimler, the Majestic Major (DQ450) was a luxury saloon, based on the Daimler Majestic, with the Major being enhanced with the acclaimed Edward Turner designed 4 ½ litre overhead valve V8 with twin SU carburettors. The V8 produced 220 bhp at 5500 rpm and was delivered through a three-speed Borg-Warner DG 12 automatic gearbox. With all this the car was able to reach top speeds in excess of 120mph, with Motor Sport Magazine describing the Majestic Major as having ‘Sports car performance’.

Suspension has front coil springs, rear rigid axle and semi-elliptic leaf springs and the car is slowed by Dunlop disc brakes all round. The Major was six inches longer than the standard majestic and featured a distinctive “V” motif in the radiator grille, which denoted the V8 engine (an engine that Jaguar tested in their MK10 cars, producing a great increase in performance, though never finding its way into full Jaguar production).

Cabin luxury came in the form of a high quality and comfortable leather interior, with walnut facia and trim and cocktail tables for rear passengers.

This Majestic Major was manufactured the 20th of June 1966 and was sold directly from Daimler to the Romanian Embassy, London on the 23rd of August 1966 with the registration KYM 167 D (as identified on the Heritage Certificate and then purchased by the British Government and used by Lieutenant General Sir Brian Gwynne Horrocks. The car still bears his regimental badge on the front grille.

Imported into Australia from the UK in 1983 after being in storage for 10 years with only 23k miles recorded. Finished in two tone black and silver with a red leather interior. It has since been lovingly cared for and highly maintained by its owners in Australia, with the car winning multiple Daimler owners’ car club of Australia awards. Sold with Jaguar Daimler Heritage Certificate, original owner’s handbook, service manual, spare parts including dash section with gauges, catalogue and comprehensive receipts file.