2010-10-31 13:52:07 | David Jobson-Scott writes:

This is one of the Jaguar Factory Approved conversions by Avon-Stevens of Warwick to a full convertible when almost new.

2019-02-12 11:55:04 | David Jobson-Scott writes:

One of the five Avon-Stevens Convertibles made by Ladbroke Avon of Warwick. Approved by Sir William Lyons. I am the A-S Registrar and cars are listed on sirdavidjs.wix.com/avon-stevens We have 22 still in use so far.

2025-06-12 12:39:19 | pauls writes:

Car to be at auction 6/25

auctions.doreandrees.com/catalogue/lot/b3f500f6992f8d9e5c7155364beff217/ad74375b ...

Auction description:

1976 Daimler Double Six Avon-Stevens Convertible 

Registration Number: KBE 999P

Chassis Number: 2F1047BW

Engine Number: 7P26301SB

Recorded Mileage: 64,847

-One of just five built by British Coachbuilder Avon-Stevens

A truly rare opportunity to acquire one of only five Avon-Stevens convertibles ever created from the Daimler Double Six coupe. This exclusive V12-powered open-top grand tourer stands as a remarkable piece of British coachbuilding history — and one of just two examples known to remain in the UK.

The story of this extraordinary machine begins with the Jaguar XJ Coupe, first shown to acclaim at the 1973 London Motor Show. Its elegant proportions and flowing lines captivated the public, who immediately saw its potential as a convertible. However, Jaguar’s production delays and ongoing refinement issues — including concerns over window seals and wind noise — meant the car wouldn’t reach showrooms until 1975, and even then, the dream of a factory convertible remained unfulfilled.

Enter Ladbroke Avon of Warwick. Where Jaguar hesitated, British ingenuity stepped in. Rather than wait for a drop-top that would never come, Ladbroke Avon took matters into its own hands, but didn’t settle for just any base model. Instead of the standard Jaguar XJC, the company chose to convert a handful of the more luxurious, V12-powered Daimler Double Six Coupes, creating what became the Avon-Stevens Convertible. Only five were ever built: one now resides in France, one in Germany, one in Japan, and two remain in the UK. This car is one of those two.

Originally delivered to Deborah Services Ltd in March 1976, this example was promptly converted by Avon-Stevens and finished in Green Sand with black leather trim and a matching black roof. It remained in long-term ownership until the mid-1990s before being acquired by a Daimler specialist, who carried out a cosmetic restoration including a respray in red and a new soft top. The car was then purchased by a respected collector who had long sought an Avon-Stevens car in 2007.

The Daimler has been both cherished and thoroughly used, having covered over 16,000 miles including extended tours across Spain, Croatia, Austria, and Mallorca. Mechanically, it has wanted for nothing. The fuel system was renewed with new tanks and sender units, a stainless steel exhaust system was fitted, and the transmission received a full service including a new cooler. Suspension and braking systems were extensively overhauled, the body treated with rust protection, and the chrome work replaced where needed. Interior enhancements include a new stereo, fresh carpets, and ongoing leather care, all contributing to a well preserved and functional cabin, save for a tear in the rear seat leather which will require attention. 

The history is a standout feature in itself, whilst early documents have been lost, from 1995 onward, there is extensive paperwork, and since 2007, the 2 owners have maintained a meticulous digital log documenting every service, part, and penny spent. There are also some lovely videos showing highlights of their European roadtrips, spreadsheets of parts purchased and installed, expenditure and maintenance. This huge amount of detail should offer real reassurance to the next custodian. Also included are original Daimler Double Six repair manuals, original literature and several magazine articles in which the car featured.

Gloriously elegant, rare, and surprisingly usable, this Daimler Double Six Avon-Stevens Convertible represents a fascinating "what if" in Jaguar’s history, a car they never built, executed instead with British flair and coachbuilt finesse. A true collector’s item with grand touring credibility, ready for many more tours with its new custodian.