Daimler DB 18 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Daimler DB 18

The Daimler DB 18 exemplifies British luxury vehicles from the pre- and post-war periods, produced by Daimler Motor Company in Coventry, which emerged as a distinct entity from its German namesake Daimler-Benz. First presented in 1937, the DB 18 was initially based on the 1932 Daimler 15 HP and was equipped with a 2.5-litre six-cylinder engine. Its official serial production began in 1939 but was halted due to the outbreak of the Second World War, as the factory switched to military vehicle manufacture. Production resumed after the war, with the DB 18 continuing to attract an elite clientele, including Indian maharajahs and high-ranking politicians. Notably, Winston Churchill used a DB 18 Drophead Coupé during his wartime election campaign, further cementing the car's position in British political and automotive history.

Model Series Development

The DB 18 lineage can be traced back to the Daimler 15 HP, evolving through the late 1930s to debut in 1937. Its production and development faced a hiatus due to wartime constraints, but post-war, Daimler introduced revisions including improved gear ratios and the refined Daimler Consort version at the 1948 London Motor Show. A total of about 3,355 units of the 2.5-litre DB 18 and 4,250 Consort variants were produced by 1950. Barker & Co. and Mulliners handled most of the custom coachwork, with Barker-bodied cars standing out as particularly coveted due to their exclusivity and association with the British aristocracy. The DB 18 Special Sports—of which approximately 600 units were made between 1948 and 1952—offered elevated styling and performance, securing the model's reputation among post-war luxury cars.

Highlights and Market Share of the DB 18

The technical hallmark of the DB 18 is its 2,522cc straight-six engine paired with the Wilson pre-selector gearbox and Daimler Fluid Flywheel, delivering a uniquely smooth and effortless driving experience even by today’s standards. The modern independent front suspension with coil springs and the classic solid rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs gave the vehicle advanced ride comfort for its class. Distinct bespoke coachwork, often adorned with period-correct details, and the aristocratic carriage refined by Barker & Co. elevate original examples in collectors' eyes.

In terms of supply and demand, the DB 18 accounts for 100% of listings and views under the Daimler marque in our inventory, underscoring its importance and exposure relative to other Daimler models on Classic Trader.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The rarest and most prized variant is the DB 18 Drophead Coupé from 1939, with only eight built and very few surviving. Similarly, vehicles bodied by Barker & Co. are highly esteemed due to their low numbers and historical connections to the British royal family and aristocracy. The Special Sports variant, produced post-1948 in a run of about 600 units, stands out for its more modern design cues and improved driving dynamics, making it especially desirable at concours and for advanced collections.

Engine, Transmission, and Driving Characteristics

The DB 18’s inline-six offers refined and quiet performance, aided by the sophisticated pre-selector gearbox for seamless gear changes without heavy clutch work. The Fluid Flywheel further enhances smoothness and ease of handling, a feature that set the DB 18 apart from contemporary rivals. Modern suspension design up front contributes to superior comfort and ride quality. The later Special Sports can reach speeds up to 82 mph thanks to optimized gear ratios, enhancing long-distance touring capabilities. Period reviews praised the DB 18 for its composure and dignified road manners.

Popular Models: - 1939 DB 18 Drophead Coupé: Notable for extreme rarity and direct Churchill association.

• Post-war DB 18 Special Sports: Appreciated for updated styling and enhanced performance.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior, and Design

DB 18 interiors typically feature high-quality British materials, including polished wood veneers, fine wool and leather, and period-appropriate chrome accents. Exterior styling remains distinctly conservative British, with understated lines and dignified proportions. The Barker cars often boast more individualistic touches—personalised grilles, elaborate wheel trim, and custom coachwork flourishes. Accessories could include bespoke luggage, high-end radios, and fine instrumentation. Period-correct paints—often in subtle, elegant tones—emphasize the vehicle’s aristocratic roots.

Other Features

The DB 18’s association with statesmen and British nobility, such as Churchill and maharajahs, lends it appeal beyond technical merit. Its eligibility for international concours d’elegance events, when maintained in period-correct specification, highlights its international recognition within the classic car scene.

Summary

The Daimler DB 18 stands as a rare and distinguished classic, renowned for its smooth six-cylinder engine, innovative Fluid Flywheel, and famed pre-selector gearbox. With design and craftsmanship from revered coachbuilders like Barker & Co., its historical significance, including ownership by Winston Churchill, and its technical refinement establish the DB 18 as a prized piece of British automotive heritage. Available mainly as a saloon or exquisite drophead coupé, every surviving DB 18 represents a valuable connection to an era of bespoke luxury and engineering excellence.