1996 Daimler Double SIX LWB Auto 6.0L Petrol · H21 MAR

Fuel economy on a 6.0-litre V12 from this era is typically in the high teens at best, and often in the low teens in real-world driving, making this a very expensive car to run. Fuel costs alone could easily exceed £3,000-£4,000 per year for a regular driver, and substantially more if used frequently. Road tax for a vehicle of this age and engine size will fall in the higher historic/classic tax bands relevant at the time of registration, and you should verify the exact VED cost before purchase. Insurance is likely to be expensive given the car's value, power, and specialist status — this is not a cheap car to insure for everyday use.

Maintenance is where this car will really bite. Parts for the Daimler Double Six, while shared with the Jaguar XJ range, are not always cheap, and V12-specific components (engine parts, cooling system, exhaust manifolds) can be eye‑yric. Expect a typical annual maintenance bill well into four figures if the car is used regularly, and be prepared for occasional large bills. Overall annual running costs are realistically £4,000-£6,000+, depending heavily on usage and whether you have access to a specialist.

Given the complete absence of MOT failures in the recorded tests, there are no specific defect categories to draw on from the history. However, the very low recorded mileage and large gaps in MOT coverage mean you cannot rely on MOT data to identify developing issues. On inspection, pay particular attention to the cooling system — V12 XJ/Daimlers are known for cooling-related problems, including water pump, thermostat, and radiator issues. Check for any signs of overheating, coolant leaks, or recent cooling system work. Also examine the 4HP24 automatic transmission for smooth changes, any slipping, or fluid leaks, as gearbox rebuilds are very expensive on these cars.

Check the condition of all rubber components, bushes, and suspension parts, which degrade with age regardless of mileage. Inspect the exhaust system, including the catalytic converters and V12 manifolds, as these are costly to replace. Look for any signs of corrosion, particularly around the rear wheel arches, sills, jacking points, and boot floor, as well as any evidence of previous welding or repair. Finally, verify the operation of all electrical features — climate control, electric seats, windows, and the trip computer — as electrical gremlins are not unusual on cars of this era, and rectification can be time-consuming.