Daimler DR450

Daimler DR450

Manufacturer	Daimler Motor Company
Production	1961–1968 864 produced
Predecessor	Daimler DK400
Successor	Daimler DS420
Class	Executive
Body style	4-door limousine
Engine	4.5 litre V8
Transmission	BW DG12 automatic
Wheelbase	3,505 mm (138.0 in)
Length	5,740 mm (226.0 in)
Width	1,860 mm (73.2 in)
Height	1,665 mm (65.6 in)
Kerb weight	2,109 kg (4,650 lb)

The Daimler DR450 was a limousine based on the 4.5 litre V8 Majestic Major saloon. Although intended for the carriage trade or as a hire car for those needing something larger than a five-seater saloon, it was produced in almost the same numbers as the "Major" saloon itself. It was also used as the basis for a hearse. The central seats, like those of other Daimler limousines, were not full seats but simple fold-down types without the thick cushions provided to the front and rear seats.

It featured a longer box section chassis than that of the "Major" saloon and a third window at the rear of the car. For special order, a landaulette version with an open top was built, notably for the King of Thailand. Compared to the Majestic and the "Major", the styling of the DR450 was even more dated as the rear side windows were less curved and more boxy. However, the powerful 4,561 cc (278 cubic inch) hemi-head engine meant the DR450 was only a little slower than the Majestic Major with a top speed of 180 km/h (112 miles per hour)^[1][2], and with powerful disc brakes, the car stopped very well despite weighing over 2,100 kg.

With the takeover of Daimler by Jaguar Cars Limited, the DR450 was the last "true" Daimler. It was produced until 1968, when it was replaced by the unitary construction Jaguar-based DS420 limousine. 864 cars came out of the Coventry factory^[3].

References

1. ^ D'Angelo, Sergio (editor); World Car Catalogue (1968), page 129; published 1968 by London Iliffe Books Limited
2. ^ Daimler DR450 limousine, (1964 example)
3. ^ "Ran When Parked: Daimler DR450". Ranwhenparked.blogspot.com. 2010-09-18. http://ranwhenparked.blogspot.com/2010/09/daimler-dr450.html. Retrieved 2011-06-18.