Highlights

Extensively restored in Germany in the 1990s
Owned by a Daimler enthusiast since 2017
Previously used for wedding hire
Comprehensive history file with records from the 1990s

The Appeal

Introduced in 1937 as a replacement for the EL20, Daimler's new light-limo was a bigger, more powerful car intended for a very specific audience. In a time when their larger cars aimed at diplomats and monarchs, the EL24 was a more affordable option intended as mayoral or CEO transportation. Don't let that fool you, though - these are still very in line with Daimler's standards - big, bulky cars intended for chauffeuring, loaded with luxury.

An immediate glance at this big, beautiful car betrays its era, and it's incredibly evocative. Previously used for wedding hire, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration in the 1990s, which has now garnered an attractive level of patina. We understand it to be a highly capable car that's in good mechanical health - and still carrying a very handsome cabin.

Beautifully picked out in red and black, this handsome limousine is bound to prove a head-turner as it regally wafts along the network. Who doesn't want to look - and feel - like a statesman when cruising the countryside?

20241204_122158 David Whittington.jpg 8 MB

History and Paperwork

Registered in 1939
Extensively restored in Germany in the 1990s with a substantial file available
Previously used for wedding hire in northeast England and Germany
Owned since 2017
Day-to-day maintenance and servicing done by the owner
Copies of correct instructions for use and maintenance available
Currently indicates 06,601km on a five-figure odometer
Speedometer changed to kph in the 1990s

20241205_171056 David Whittington.jpg 4.31 MB

The Condition

Chassis and body structure are sound, reflecting 1990s "body off" work
Kept mainly in a barn in France and usually covered
During this restoration the bodywork was repaired, and the car rewired, repainted and reupholstered
Body is coach built by Daimler with a timber frame and largely aluminium panels
Paintwork redone in the 1990s; some paint splitting but overall look remains fine
Features a "smoker's hatch" in the roof, which shows no sign of water ingress
Chrome is in good condition except for the centre lock wheel nuts
Sturdy running boards with thick ribbed covering
Wire wheels painted silver grey by the previous owner
These are structurally sound but could benefit from refinishing
Tyres in good order, and recently fitted
Interior is generally in fine condition, suitable for private use
Headlining is fine, and woodwork is in good condition
Front seat position changed for better driving position for tall individuals
Occasional seats removed but parts retained for easy reversal
Carpets are fine and show no wear
Large amount of space in the back with a rear luggage rack available
No boot; spare wheel carried at the rear

20241204_122358 David Whittington.jpg 8 MB

The Mechanics

3,317cc 6-cylinder engine
Semi-automatic transmission with 4 gears
Pre-selector gear change with fluid flywheel between engine and gearbox
Exhaust is sound; no parts have been replaced
Engine pulls strongly once warmed up; pre-selector gears function properly
Occasionally, gear change mechanism links become detached but are easily replaced
Mechanical brakes with vacuum servo assistance; require occasional adjustment
Electrics redone in the 1990s and all work, including dipping headlights
No engine work undertaken except for single SU carburettor adjustment
Cylinder head overhauled in the 1990s German restoration
Engine not particularly quiet due to large tappet clearances; no worsening under current ownership
Oil consumption not high; water temperature remains stable even in challenging conditions
Mechanical brakes with Clayton Dewandre vacuum servo
Rear axle with underslung worm drive (SAE 140 oil)
Fairly soft springing with semi-elliptic springs all around
Tools include starting handle and special spanner for centre-locking wire wheels
Generally cruises at 60-70 kph without protest
Car is immediately usable and is used weekly by the vendor
Pre-selector and fluid flywheel are excellent for town and mountain drives
Not a fast car or one for sharp cornering; designed for a chauffeur

20241204_123325 David Whittington.jpg 8 MB

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..