Daimler SP250
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Daimler SP250 "Dart" | |
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| Manufacturer | Daimler Motor Company |
| Production | 1959–1964 |
| Class | Sports car |
| Body style(s) | 2 seat open car |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 2.5 litre V-8 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed manual automatic |
| Wheelbase | 92 in (2,337 mm) |
| Length | 160 in (4,064 mm) |
| Width | 60 in (1,524 mm) |
| Curb weight | 2,070 lb (940 kg) |
The Daimler Dart was launched at the 1959 New York Motor Show, and its greatest success was in the American market. It had a fibreglass body, four wheel Girling disc brakes, and a 2.5 litre Hemi-head V8 designed by Edward Turner. They were soon forced to drop the Dart name when threatened with legal action by Chrysler’s Dodge division, the car was then renamed the Daimler SP250.[1]
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[edit] Versions
The original A-spec version could do 120 mph (193 km/h), but the chassis, a “14-gauge ladder frame with cruciform bracing” based on the Triumph TR-3, flexed so much that doors came open, marring its reputation.[2]
Jaguar bought Daimler in 1960, and were immediately concerned about the chassis flex. They brought out the B-spec version with extra outriggers on the chassis and a strengthening hoop between the A posts. There were also other detail improvements, including an adjustable steering column.[1]
There was a C-spec version introduced in 1963 with some additional luxuries as standard equipment.
2,645 were produced.
Jaguar built a prototype replacement with a neater body style but decided not to proceed with production.
[edit] Specification
- ENGINE: V type, eight cylinder, water cooled, OHV, Bore 3", Stroke 2.75", Capacity 153 cubic inches (2.547 litres) Single high camshaft operated valves through short alloy pushrods. Double heavy duty valve springs. Aluminium alloy hemispherical cylinder heads. Stiff 5 main bearing crankshaft, dynamically balanced. Compression ratio 8.2:1 Twin SU carburettors. bhp 140 @ 5800 rpm. Max Torque 155 lb·ft (210 N·m) at 3600 rpm. SU electric fuel pump.
- IGNITION: Coil and distributor with auto and vacuum control.
- LUBRICATION: Submerged gear type oil pump. Full flow filter. Sump capacity 1.75 US gallons.
- COOLING SYSTEM: Pressurised radiator with fan, pump and thermostat control.
- TRANSMISSION: 4 speeds with synchromesh on top three ratios. Provision for overdrive. Automatic optional.
- REAR AXLE: Hypoid bevel 3.58:1
- STEERING: Cam type.
- SUSPENSION: Independent front with coil springs. Half elliptics at rear. Oversize dampers.
- BRAKES: Discs on all four wheels, hydraulic operation.
See also: Daimler 2.5 & 4.5 Litre V8 Engines
[edit] Appearances in films & books
- Modesty Blaise had an ivory-coloured Dart in the early book versions of her adventures, and it also appeared occasionally in the comic strip.
- A Dart features briefly in the film The Fast Lady.
- A green Dart was used in the ITV Series Heartbeat in 2005.
[edit] Die-Cast Models
- Spot-on produced a model of the SP250 in the 1960s, available in a number of colours including red and light blue.
- Crossway introduced a model in 2007, available in various colours and with or without the hood up.
