The Daimler Dart SP250 stands as one of the most unconventional and daring sports cars to emerge from Britain in the 1960s. Unveiled at the 1959 New York Motor Show, it marked Daimler’s bold venture into the sports car market. The Dart was the company’s first and only true sports car, designed to rival established names like Jaguar, Aston Martin, and Triumph.
While the car's lightweight fiberglass body and powerful 2.5L V8 engine turned heads, its styling was divisive—so much so that it was once voted the ugliest car at the New York Auto Show. However, with time, the SP250 has become beloved by classic car enthusiasts for its distinct personality, impressive performance, and rare status. Originally conceived to take on the American market, the Dart’s remarkable power-to-weight ratio made it a true performer, capable of achieving over 120 mph and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just over 9 seconds—astounding numbers for its time. The Dart was so quick that British police forces used it as a high-speed pursuit vehicle, further solidifying its reputation as one of the most exciting British road cars of its era.
Though it had a rocky start, the SP250 has secured its place in automotive history. Only 2,654 examples were ever produced, making it rarer than many of its contemporaries. Over the years, the Dart has gained a cult following, praised for its free-revving Hemi-head V8, lightweight handling, and one-of-a-kind styling that set it apart from other cars of the era. Its unique design and driving characteristics have earned it a respected spot in the world of classic cars.
The Daimler Dart SP250 has even made its mark on the silver screen, cementing its place in pop culture. It appeared in numerous films and TV series, showcasing its charismatic design and thrilling performance. Notably, it was featured in the 1966 film "The Sandpiper", starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and in the 1967 film "The Jokers", with Michael Crawford and Oliver Reed. The SP250 also made several appearances in episodes of classic British TV series, including the stylish and dynamic "The Avengers", perfectly aligning with the show’s chic, action-packed aesthetic.
The Dart was not just admired by movie stars and television personalities; it also gained the affection of some of Britain’s most celebrated racing drivers. Among them was Sir Stirling Moss, who was known for his passion for quirky, high-performance cars. The Hemi-head V8 and sporty handling made the Dart a favorite among those who appreciated a distinctive and exhilarating driving experience. The Dart’s agile nature and lively V8 engine made it a standout on both the road and the racetrack.
At Power and Co, we were fortunate to have the opportunity to showcase a particular 1963 Daimler Dart SP250 in our collection. This model was a B-Spec version, which came with factory chassis reinforcements designed to improve rigidity and handling. Originally painted in Tudor Grey, the car has undergone a meticulous restoration and now stands in a vibrant yellow, showcasing the enduring appeal and collectability of this unique British sports car. (This is the picture used for this post!)
Today, the Daimler Dart SP250 remains a true driver’s classic. Its exhilarating open-top experience, smooth manual gearbox, and the unmistakable soundtrack provided by its classic British V8 engine make it a joy to drive. Once dismissed for its bold and unconventional design, the Dart is now regarded as one of the most charismatic and underrated British sports cars ever made. As a testament to its lasting appeal, the SP250 continues to be cherished by collectors and driving enthusiasts alike, standing tall as a remarkable piece of automotive history.