Daimler History

Britain’s oldest marque.

                                                           1896 Car production began in Coventry.

1898 The Daimler became the Official transportation of the British royal family, and continued to be so until 1950 when Rolls-Royce took over that roll.
1907 Saw the introduction of the fluted style radiator grille that is still used today.
1960 The Daimler company was acquired by Jaguar cars.
1968 The DS420 Limousine was introduced into production and continued until
1992 When the last of the 4116, DS420’s were built. The last three examples built were supplied to the Royal mews, one for Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and the very last two for the Queen, these are still used today for state occasions and visiting dignitaries.
One DS420 was always kept aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, for use by the Royals when abroad.
Other notable users are the British government, Hong Kong Government, British and foreign Diplomats, High class Hotels around the world and various Royal families.
The vehicle was always hand built and designed to be a direct rival to the Rolls-Royce model, the Phantom VI.
i.e. The rear seat in the DS420 is 6ft wide (the same as the Phantom VI)
Le Baron has four examples, being the best looking Limousine to carry seven passengers in comfort, a formal Limousine (not a stretch) with head room for ladies hats and large doors to enable ease of entry.
Two of our fleet being a matched pair in White, with a choice of interior colour (grey or blue) one with air conditioning.
A third being a Landaulette body style, also in white. The Daimler factory only ever built two of these neither of which exist to-day. Le Baron decided to build one for the use of our Brides who wish to take advantage of an open top car, yet still have the seven seat capability for seating Bridesmaids and parents. Also it pairs with either of the standard White DS420’s to give an exclusive car for the bride, but still a matching pair of Limousines, if required.
Our forth DS420, the Ebony and Ivory model, was built in 1992 and was among the last ever built. Supplied new to Nuneaton Borough Council, for the use of the Mayor. It had a special cloth interior and was originally fitted with a flag staff, illuminated civic crest on the roof, stereo sound system and fitted telephone.
This car has been especially refinished for Le Baron, to match the colour of our 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith.