Daimler V8 250 top speed and rpm

[martinrawlings555]

I have a Daimler V8 250 with a 3 speed auto box.
I am really only able to get it up to 75 mph which seems a bit low, as the top speed in its day was over 100 mph
Could anyone advise me what speed you can get from a daimler V8 250
Its not that I want to go fast but I just want to be able to cruise along at 75 mph rather than pushing it too hard.
Also although I definitely have 3 gears it feels like it should change into another higher gear above about 60 Mph
But of course there is no other higher gear.
Just wandering if others have the same experience as me, and if there is anything wrong with my car or is this how it is for an old car.
I have read other posts which also refer to the wish for another higher gear but in the day it was only built with a 3 speed box.

[piman]

Martin,

I'm not certain about the top speed, but I don't think they would exceed 100 mph. The fitting of an automatic gearbox was done as in manual form it was faster than the 2.4 saloon which wasn't acceptable to Jaguar.
What speed is your engine running at 75 mph, I'm guessing about 4,000 rpm which is well within the capability of the engine. Is it in good condition and\or benefit from a tune up?
I appreciate that it is a relatively low geared car but fitting a different axle ratio would probably adversely affect the liveliness and would be expensive anyway.

I would add I'm not speaking from experience as I've never driven the Daimler version.

Alec

[Dave Eynon]

I have a 1965 model, so it too has the autobox which doesn't suit the engine at all which really likes to rev so the manual versions offered in the 250 model must be a joy to drive. That said the car was aimed at Bank Managers rather than Bank Robbers and I find that the car likes to cruise at around 65mph. Yes it will go faster, but I keep that for short spurts rather than sustained driving. I think the driving position and sitting on a split bench seat in my model promotes a different driving style. Start by making sure the accelerator fully opens the throttle valves. After that its really going to require a systematic checking of all the ignition and fuel systems. Cylinder compression test would reveal if the engine is healthy and capable of developing its full potential. It has a twin point distributor to help achieve a better spark, might be a good place to start. Hope you get it sorted.

[martinrawlings555]

Thanks for the replies
yes I agree with you both
65 mph is best for cruising and i imagine the manual would be good.

The engine is fully rebuilt so I dont think its properly run in yet.

I really been enjoying driving it recently and is fast enough.

Yes revs are about 4000 at 70 mph

I too love the bench seat and the more sedate style than the Jaguar.