1926 Daimler

Model 45 HP Salon Cabriolet

Daimler was the automobile of choice of the British Royal Family for some time, and this car was special-ordered by Gulab Singh, the Maharajah of Rewa of India.

Barker & Company, London, built the body using panels of German silver (a nickel-brass alloy) hand-formed over an intricate woodan frame. There are two sets of windows - one of clear glass, and the other of smoked Triplex; with all the glass raised and the top up, the Maharajah's two wives could not be seen as they traveled throughout the Kingdom.


Boa constrictor-shaped horns are mounted on the fenders, and during hunting expeditions servants rode on the rattan seats attached to the running boards. In addition to the speedometer, tachometer and oil temperature gauges on the dashboard, another gauge measures air temperature and a gradient meter shows the angle of the huge car on the terrain. It was rumored that when the car was discovered in the 1970's, four elephants were used to carry it from the jungle in a giant sling! The tires are original issue from 1926

Engine

6 cylinder, in-line OHV
451 cubic inch
51,36 hp. (R.A.C)

Body/Coachbuilder
Barker & Company
London, England

Manufacturer
Daimler Company Ltd.
Coventry, England

Price when new; N/A



June 2, 2011, 3:56 am