Daimler Corsica

By 1994, Jaguar’s XJ-series cars had been in production for 8 years and were looking dated. In an effort to recapture the beauty of the original XJ6 of the 1960s, Jaguar’s XJ range was completely restyled for 1995, and the new styling was lauded as a resurgence of Jaguar elegance. As before, Jaguar manufactured Daimler-branded versions of its XJ saloons.

However, 1996 was Daimler’s centenary, and it was felt that something special should be done in celebration. Thus the Corsica was born: a 2-door convertible version of the Daimler Six saloon.

1996 Daimler Corsica

Built using an XJ-series body shell, and modified XJS and XK8 seating and roof mechanisms, the Corsica was built as a shell only, not a driveable vehicle, being intended only for display on motor show stands.

Surprisingly elegant with the roof up.

XJS-esque seats – say that three times fast.

After Daimler’s centenary celebration, the vehicle was transferred to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust, an offshoot of the manufacturer whose goal is to preserve important vehicles in both companies’ histories.  Rather excitingly, the JDHT decided the Corsica deserved better, and commissioned David Marks Garages to turn an empty shell of a vehicle into a fully-functioning, running car. Some 400 hours of work later, the car was fitted with a complete powertrain, as well as all necessary electronics and HVAC systems.

The Corsica as a fully running vehicle.

The Corsica remains in the collection of the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust. Amongst other services, the JDHT operate a museum of important Jaguar and Daimler vehicles in Coventry. The collection is displayed on rotation, however, so if you’re hankering to see the Corsica in person, make sure you contact them first.

To read more about the incredible amount of work that went into rebuilding this beautiful car, check out the David Marks Garages story on the Daimler Corsica Project.

Images courtesy David Marks Garages and JDHT.