1938 Daimler DB18 'Ritz Edition'
Highlights
- Intensely rare Ritz edition believed to have been built in less than 20 units
- Built for Walter Grant of Highland Park Distillery, Orkney
- Fully restored in recent years
- Engine rebuilt by specialist David Beatles
The Appeal
Introduced for the 1939 model year, the DB18 was a car subject to poor timing. Almost as soon as it was in showrooms, Daimler were switched into building for the British war machine. Handsome and well-appointed to Daimler's already age-old adage of 'good taste', these princely, torque-heavy cars were an exercise in dignity, and very quickly proved themselves, too. By the time production paused in 1940, they'd already sold a very respectable 1,000 units - of which only around 20 were the market-peaking Ritz edition.
It's only natural that these are now a bit of a unicorn. They are the most senior of the DB18s, in its highest, rarest specification. We're naturally expecting plenty of interest from any pre-war enthusiast, and this particularly handsome example is most worthy of your attention. Beautifully restored in recent years, the car's torquey 2,522 cc six-cylinder pushrod engine is still driving as nicely as ever it has following a full rebuild by the much-respected David Beatles.
Carrying a very respectable level of patina here and there, this remarkably handsome blue example is loaded with palatial woodwork and plush leather, and comes to us in condition you're unlikely to see challenged by other examples on the market.
It's only natural that these are now a bit of a unicorn. They are the most senior of the DB18s, in its highest, rarest specification. We're naturally expecting plenty of interest from any pre-war enthusiast, and this particularly handsome example is most worthy of your attention. Beautifully restored in recent years, the car's torquey 2,522 cc six-cylinder pushrod engine is still driving as nicely as ever it has following a full rebuild by the much-respected David Beatles.
Carrying a very respectable level of patina here and there, this remarkably handsome blue example is loaded with palatial woodwork and plush leather, and comes to us in condition you're unlikely to see challenged by other examples on the market.
The History and Paperwork
- Built in 1938
- Delivered to Walter Grant of Highland Park Distillery, Orkney
- Originally registered BS1750; this plate was sold in 197
- The DVLA records a total of 4 previous keepers
- In current ownership since April 2023
- MOT exempt
- Fully restored in recent years
- Engine rebuilt in 2024
- Indicates 01,156 miles on a five-figure odometer
- Sadly the vendor is selling the car due to to developing disabilities that prevent it being driven
The Condition
- Impressive, unmistakably pre-war lines
- No sign of any dents or dings
- Repainted in recent years to a high standard
- Deep blue livery carries some light areas of wear
- This paintwork perfectly suits the car's handsome lines, creating a distinctive regal character
- All brightwork rechromed in recent years and still casting a fine contrast
- Very distinctive horse-and-jockey radiator hood ornament
- Glasswork and lenses are very nicely presented
- Wheels look in fine fettle, as do the tyres
- Handsome grey leather interior, retrimmed in recent years
- All woodwork is very nicely presented, having been replaced during the car's restoration
- Very nicely specified with picnic tables, ashtrays, book storage and plentiful veneers
- All instruments very clear, legible and evocative
- Boot is clean and solid
The Mechanics
- 2,522 cc 6-cylinder pushrod OHV engine fed by a single SU carburettor
- 70 brake horsepower, offering a reported maximum speed of around 76mph
- 4-speed pre-selector gearbox with Fluid Flywheel
- Engine bay is in good order and very original
- Engine has been completely rebuilt to a high standard
- We've no reports of any mechanical issues
- Ultimately, the car appears to be ready and waiting to hit the road
BEFORE YOU BUY
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Vehicle specification
- Year 1938
- Make Daimler
- Model DB18
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 1,166 Miles
- Engine size 2522
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Swadlincote
- Location Leicestershire
- Country United Kingdom
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