The Daimler Double-Six Vanden Plas was launched on 26th September 1972 with the first long wheelbase XJ body and coincided with the availability of the Jaguar V12 engine on both the standard Jaguar and Daimler saloons.

Built by Daimler in Coventry, the new car with one colour coat of paint was taken in a driveable state to Vanden Plas, Kingsbury for final painting in one of a range of special colours, the fitting of a black vinyl roof and exclusive trimming which identified the model from its Daimler finished cousin. It was powered by the 5,343cc, V12, 309bhp at 6,250rpm Jaguar engine. Four carburettors were fitted together with transistorised ignition. Borg-Warner Model 12 automatic transmission was standard as were disc brakes, ventilated in front, independent suspension all round and power assisted rack and pinion steering. Externally the car differed not only by its unique body colour and black vinyl roof but by the fitting of special gunmetal finished pressed steel wheels. A chromium-plated moulding and a gold coachline were placed along each side of the vehicle and a 'Vanden Plas' badge placed on the nearside of the boot lid. At the front twin foglamps were fitted above the bumper and below the inner pair of headlights. Sundym glass was fitted to all windows.

Inside the car all seating was faced with leather to a special Vanden Plas design. Air-conditioning, a radio/stereo tape player with electric aerial and 4 speakers, remote-controlled drivers door mirror, electric windows, heated rear window, reading lamps for rear passengers and red warning lights fitted to all doors were all standard. 

In total, just 342 Daimler Double-Six Vanden Plas Series 1 were made before the model was replaced by the Series 2 in September 1973.