Registration – LNV 676L

Chassis No. – 2B1194BW

M.O.T. – Exempt

Odometer – 59,765

‘LNV676L’ is a very rare iteration of Sir William Lyons’ swansong – the XJ saloon. Being a Series I range topping V12 Vanden Plas model this car is one of just 351 originally built making it the rarest model from this first series of luxury saloons. ‘LNV676L’ is described as a non-running barn find and so offers an enticing opportunity to bring this rarest of models up to its former glory. With just six former keepers, the vendor acquired this survivor car around 4 years ago and it has been stored ever since. The Smiths odometer reads a shade under 60,000 miles which isn’t warranted but seems believable. ‘LNV676L’ is revealed as a long wheelbase version – 4 inches longer – by its chassis number which also confirms it as the 193^rd of 351 made. Back in 1973 this car would have provided a viable alternative to a Rolls-Royce, Bentley or top of the range Mercedes-Benz. This car comes from the large private collection of an individual enthusiast and is offered here with NO RESERVE.

The Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas Series I was only built for one year between September 1972 and September 1973, hence making it a very low volume and rarely seen model. This barn find example exhibits all the Series I cues including the deep, forward raked grill, vinyl roof and the special gunmetal finished, pressed steel wheels with Daimler chrome hubcaps. Even the original twin driving lights above the front bumper are still present. As a true Rolls-Royce alternative, the Vandan Plas was awash with rare refinements for 1973. This includes seating faced with leather to a special Vanden Plas design. Air-conditioning, a radio/stereo tape or 8 track (as included here) player with electric aerial and 4 speakers, remote-controlled driver’s door mirror, electric windows, heated rear window, reading lamps for rear passengers and red warning lights fitted to all doors were all standard and remain present here. ‘LNV676L’s’ paintwork, bodywork and interior are all described as “average.”

The Series I Double Six, a Daimler model name last used in the mid 1920’s, provided the first saloon outing for the esteemed 5.3-litre V12 engine. It also made it the first mass production V12 saloon and simultaneously the "fastest full four-seater available in the world." In this early application the V12 was fitted with four carburettors and originally produced a bountiful 309bhp. This is mated to a Type 12 Borg Warner three speed automatic gearbox. ‘LNV676L’ is classed as a non-runner with the engine and electrics classed as “poor” and the transmission as “average.”

In summary:

• A barn find example of the very rare Series I Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas
• Presents in a highly original and seemingly complete condition
• Offering great potential for improvement and restoration