Daimler DE 36 classic cars for sale

History of the Daimler DE 36

Launched in 1946, the Daimler DE series emerged as Daimler’s flagship post-war model line, with the DE 36 standing out as the most exclusive and technically advanced variant. Designed to serve not only dignitaries and royalty—including the British Royal Family—but also wealthy clients worldwide, the DE 36 signalled Daimler’s ambition to reclaim its pre-war prestige. The basis was a rigid chassis with cross-bracing and front independent suspension, complemented by Girling hydromechanical brakes and a Hotchkiss drive for the rear axle. Production spanned from 1946 to 1953, culminating in just 205 DE 36s, most bodied by Hooper & Co. in unparalleled style. Few vehicles encapsulate post-war British craftsmanship and exclusivity at this level.

Model history

The DE 36 follows the line of Daimler’s pre-war luxury chassis and improves upon its predecessors, such as the DE 27. The DE 27 featured a straight-six engine and shorter wheelbase, while the DE 36 debuted with a 147-inch wheelbase and an impressive straight-eight engine. After 1953, Daimler shifted focus away from the large straight-eights, making the DE 36 the swansong of this prestigious configuration—a final showpiece of traditional British luxury motoring before automotive trends turned towards modernisation and smaller-capacity engines.

Highlights of the Daimler DE 36

Key features include the rare 5.4-litre straight-eight engine with nine main bearings, Hooper & Co. aluminium coachwork, and pioneering equipment such as electric windows, a fully retractable electro-hydraulic fabric roof, spring-mounted rear wheel covers, and built-in jacks at each wheel. The advanced dashboard features individual instruments and an ivory control set, while the interior adopts a theatre-style seating layout for optimal forward visibility. Among the special-bodied cars, the Green Goddess stands out for its dramatic aesthetics and show presence.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Most notable among DE 36 variants are the "Docker Daimlers," especially the Green Goddess (1947), the Golden Daimler (1951), and the Blue Clover Coupé (1952). Built by Hooper & Co. for Earl’s Court Motor Shows, these one-offs captivated audiences with their extravagant design and luxury features. Only about seven Green Goddess bodies were produced, with four known to survive today. These show cars feature unique details such as Perspex-covered headlights with chromed ribs, specialized hidden mechanisms, and unparalleled elegance, making them supreme points of reference in British automotive history.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The straight-eight 5.4-litre engine, supported by nine main bearings, ensures smooth torque delivery and robust performance despite the DE 36’s substantial weight. The Daimler Fluid-Flywheel pre-selector gearbox delivers gentle but decisive gear changes through a steering-column selector. Handling for its era is enhanced by independent front suspension and a well-engineered chassis, allowing for surprisingly easy manoeuvring at low speeds and impressive comfort, especially when fitted with Hooper coachwork. Built-in jacks simplify tyre changes despite the car’s imposing 20-foot length. - DE 36 Hooper-bodied Limousine: Standard luxury specification, typically with full leather interior, elaborate woodwork and privacy features.

• DE 36 "Green Goddess": Show car with unique features and the most documented provenance among all DE 36s.
• DE 36 Golden Daimler/Blue Clover Coupé: Exclusive body styles, produced in extremely limited quantities.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Hooper & Co.’s craftsmanship imbued the DE 36 with an aura of understated grandeur. Exteriors were finished in aluminium for both elegance and lightness, with features such as Perspex headlamp covers and detailed chrome accents. Theatre-style seating allowed all passengers a commanding forward view, and three-abreast seating at the front provided limousine-level comfort. Interiors were trimmed in fine leather, with curved wood dashboards housing ivory-coloured controls and dual-unit speedometers (km/h or mph). Electric windows and the novel retractable fabric roof brought rare modernity to luxury car interiors of the late 1940s and early 1950s. Special editions, notably the show cars, included an arsenal of opulent, show-stopping features, from hidden mechanisms to lavish finishing.

Other Features

Built-in hydraulic jacks at all four corners made for unmatched practicality in tyre changes—a rarity in cars of this class and age. The DE 36’s weight, stature, and unique rear wheel covers (mounted via spring hinges) are functional design highlights. Electrical systems accommodated advanced accessories for the time, including power windows and show-level lighting technology.

Summary

The Daimler DE 36 stands at the apex of post-war British luxury car engineering, defined by its straight-eight engine, Hooper & Co. bodywork, and extraordinary features. Its rarity—only 205 produced—coupled with its use by royalty and the uniqueness of its special editions, place it among the most prestigious British classics. The Green Goddess, Golden Daimler, and Blue Clover Coupé are prime examples of collector appeal and period artistry. For those drawn to technical ingenuity, grand coachbuilt design, and exclusivity, the DE 36 offers a distinct position in classic motoring history.