Daimler 6-hp Twin-cylinder Six-seat Brake

Even though it looks a bit primitive, this English Daimler from 1897 was used regularly until 1924. That says something about its durability.

Although it may look a bit primitive, this English Daimler from 1897 was used regularly until 1924. That says something about its durability. What is special about this car, which is still in original condition, is that it still has a steering lever and glow tube ignition. Daimler later offered the option of having these replaced with more modern parts such as a steering wheel and electric ignition, something many owners made use of. A brake or shooting brake (hunting car) is a body style in which the rear seats are positioned lengthwise. The janplezier, well known in the Netherlands, also has a similar seat layout. Daimler is the oldest English car brand and this 6 HP two cylinder dates from the first year the factory produced cars. This makes it both one of the oldest surviving Daimlers and one of the oldest English cars. In 1891 Frederick Simms bought the patents for the German Daimler engines in order to manufacture and sell them in England for installation in boats and cars. Four years later Simms company was taken over by Harry Lawson, who founded the Daimler Motor Company in 1896 and brought his first car to market the following year.