If you’re on the prowl for the quirkiest pickup conversion, brace yourself for “Purple Thunder” – the Daimler Double-Six that will turn more heads than a parade of clowns in a library. This six-wheeled beast has a two-seater cabin and a sonorous V12 engine under its hood. But wait, there’s more! It flaunts a bed that stretches longer than your aunt’s Sunday sermon. And guess what? If you’re in the UK, you can have it parked right under your driveway.
The bizarre creation is based on a 1981 Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas, which was nothing more than a rebadged and generously equipped Jaguar XJ Series III with an extended wheelbase. What was once a four-door limo has undergone a dramatic transformation into a two-door single-cab pickup thanks to a bespoke rear end and a considerably shortened cabin.
More: Bonkers Porsche 944 Converted To A Six-Wheeler Pickup Has A $188,000 Price Tag
According to the Catawiki listing, this vehicle stands alone as the sole model of its kind boasting a double rear axle. While six-wheeler conversions have gained some traction lately, it’s worth noting that the world doesn’t often witness a Jaguar with more than four wheels. The purple paint with gold graphics and chrome accents adds to its uniqueness, as do the side-mounted exhaust pipes which are said to produce a “unique sound”. However, one less appealing aspect is the fuel filler cap protruding from the bodywork, a result of its relocation due to the extensively redesigned rear fenders.
The two-seater interior retains the wood panels on the dashboard and door cards but the white leather upholstery and the Daimler badged steering wheel have seen better days, while the headliner needs to be replaced. The rear bench has been removed, but the boot is now spacious enough to accommodate plenty of suitcases under the tonneau cover.
The Daimler ute is powered by a stock 5.3-liter V12 powertrain, which originally produced up to 295 hp (220 kW / 300 PS). According to the current owner, the engine is in good running condition, as are the automatic gearbox, brakes, tires, and suspension.
As one might expect with older Jaguars there are a few issues, including an oil leak and a non-working fuel gauge. The odometer reading of 77,150 miles (124,160 km) indicates infrequent use, which is entirely understandable given the size of this vehicle.
This distinctive creation, which has exchanged hands among 8 different owners over its lifetime, is projected to command a price ranging from €12,250 to €13,500 ($13,100 to $14,400). Currently, the highest bid stands at €10,500 ($11,200), and the auction has another 2 days before closing. So, the question remains: would you make an offer for this uniquely practical Daimler or opt for something more dependable and less intriguing?