The new V8-powered Daimler saloons were introduced in 1997 as part of Jaguar's revised X300 range, a new and highly acclaimed ZF five-speed automatic gearbox arriving at the same time.

This state-of-the-art, quad-cam, 32-valve engine was built in capacities of 3.2 and 4.0 litres to power three new Jaguars and two new Daimlers.

The new Daimlers comprised the V8 and Super V8, the latter equipped with a 322bhp supercharged unit, both of which shared the same long-wheelbase four-door saloon body and were equipped to the customarily very high standard of luxury.

As well as being V8 powered, the car is taken to other extremes with its very rare supercharging, and long-wheelbase and luxurious specification.

One of the proudest traditions in Daimler history was that since 1900, when the then Prince of Wales, later HM King Edward VII, purchased his first Daimler car, Daimlers were used by British Kings and Queens, with the Super V8 being no different, with Queen Elizabeth II herself having ...