Daimler D16 classic cars for sale

History of the Daimler D16

Produced in the early 1920s, the Daimler D16 stands as a testament to the marque’s commitment to luxurious and technologically advanced vehicles. The D16 featured a stately, upright body typical for luxury cars of the period, with a Landaulette configuration that allowed rear passengers to enjoy open-air motoring. Daimler’s use of the sleeve-valve engine underscored its focus on refined performance, further cementing the D16’s place within the British upper class during the era. The car’s impressive size and period styling made it a popular choice for formal occasions and distinguished clientele.

Model History

The D16 followed Daimler’s established tradition of producing large, prestigious vehicles with innovative engineering features. Its predecessor models similarly featured sleeve-valve engines and solidly built coachwork, while later Daimlers gradually moved towards more streamlined bodywork and eventually abandoned the sleeve-valve technology in favour of overhead-valve engines. The Landaulette specification, with its openable rear roof section, reflected the fashion for flexible luxury motoring in this period.

Highlights of the Daimler D16

The D16 is distinguished by its elegant Landaulette body, originally fitted with an advanced sleeve-valve petrol engine. The car is notable for its spacious, five-seat cabin trimmed in authentic period fabrics, unique rear convertible roof, and an entirely open interior without a separating driver partition. Modern conversions have enabled electric propulsion, introducing features like regenerative braking, automatic transmission, and up to 240 km electric range—without compromising originality. The original dealer plaque and period-correct instrumentation further boost its historical significance.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Landaulette variant stands out for its period styling and openable rear roof, making it especially sought-after among collectors interested in authentic pre-war luxury configurations. Vehicles originally featuring their dealer delivery plaque and full original instrumentation further elevate their historical and collector value.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Originally featuring a sleeve-valve petrol engine, the D16 delivered a particularly smooth and quiet ride for its era, appealing to drivers seeking discrete luxury over outright speed. The car’s substantial dimensions and upright carriage mean handling is best described as relaxed and stately, not sporty. Modern electric conversions provide automatic operation, simple switchgear control, and features like regenerative braking, further enhancing driving ease without altering the vintage experience. Notable are D16 Landaulette examples from 1923, especially those retaining original sleeve-valve engines or featuring high-quality electric conversions. These stand out for mechanical integrity and practical usability in modern settings.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The D16’s design is defined by its upright, distinctly British luxury silhouette, clothed in a Landaulette body with an openable rear section for the passengers. The expansive interior is upholstered in period-correct buttoned cloth with piped edges, delivering both historical accuracy and plush comfort. Details such as the lack of a (then-common) driver/passenger partition, complete original instrumentation, and dealer plaques reflect bespoke craftsmanship. Converted models may feature discreet upgrades like automatic folding steps for easier access, always in keeping with the period character.

Other Features

Authentic D16s often retain unique period registration plates and provenance documents, aiding in historical research and verifying originality. Their mechanical layout allows for relatively straightforward electric conversions, enabling sustainable usage while preserving the classic’s visual and tactile appeal.

Summary

The Daimler D16 encapsulates luxury British motoring from the 1920s with its distinctive Landaulette body, original sleeve-valve technology, and generous interior space. Its rarity, authentic detailing, and the option for sensitive electric upgrades make it a compelling classic for collectors and enthusiasts seeking both historical fidelity and practical usability.