Daimler Conquest Drophead Coupe (1956)

Not to be confused with the visually similar roadster, nor the rather more staid and formal drophead, this is a rare DJ254 drophead coupe, which incorporates a more substantial hood, wind up windows and a third, sideways-facing seat in the rear. The whole car is in excellent condition, and is believed to be one of seven cars which left the factory in blue (1 powder blue, 1 dark blue & 5 light blue), out of a total production run of just 54. History file includes a letter from the original supplying dealer in Devon, as well as various documents which piece together a story of the car’s life so far. Relatively lightweight, aluminium coachwork coupled with a 2.5 litre straight six engine and Wilson pre-select gearbox, give the car - claimed when new to have 100mph capability - a healthy turn of speed. 1950’s futuristic, almost space age styling, make this a car of character, certain to draw attention wherever it goes! Offered serviced, prepared and MoT tested until March 2017.

SALE AGREED

Chassis No. 90526 Reg. No. VDV 413 £37,500.

Snippets: Rasher of The Yard
It is rumoured that the 1st owner Leopold Roosevelt Weaver & his four brothers featured on the Fry’s Milk Chocolate Bars called “Five Boys” – Desperation, Pacification, Expectation, Acclamation and Realisation! Sadly upon research it would seem that just one boy – Lindsey Poulton posed for the photos in 1885 and Fry’s paid the sum of £200 for their exclusive use! The second owner of the Daimler was Ltd Colonel Sir Ranulph Robert Maunsell Bacon (1906/88) Kt 1966 – his was fondly known by both his comrades & criminals as “Rasher of the Yard”. Ranulph was the nephew of John Bacon astronomer & aeronaut & keen photographer who managed to photograph the solar eclipse in Buxar, India (1898) and in North Carolina (1900). Ranulph was a keen sportsman with Rugby & Shooting top amongst his interests, upon his retirement in 1966 (mandatory due to his age) he joined the boards of Securicor (UK) Ltd and an American firm Intertel, the Gaming Board and was also President of the Gun Trade Association and the Shooting Sports Trust – at a public meeting “Rasher” once said “A shotgun is part of the adult Englishman’s equipment”. A proper copper by all accounts.

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