Lot 336: Aston Martin DB6 Sports Saloon

Considered by many to be the last 'real' Aston Martin, the DB6 was launched in 1965, updating the DB5. Though recognisably related to the Touring-styled DB4, the DB6 abandoned Touring's Superleggera body structure in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. The wheelbase was now 4 longer than before, resulting in an extensive re-style with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and re-shaped rear quarter windows. Opening front quarter lights made a re-appearance, but the major change was at the rear where a Kamm tail improved the aerodynamics. The Tadek Marek-designed six-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3,995cc for the preceding DB5 and remained unchanged. Power output on triple SU carburettors was 282bhp, rising to 325bhp in Vantage specification. Borg-Warner automatic transmission was offered alongside the standard ZF five-speed gearbox, and for the first time there was optional power-assisted steering. First registered on 13th January 1966, chassis number '2419' is the 78th DB6 built. The car was first owned by one R Hickman and has since had a further six owners, all of whom are documented in accompanying paperwork. Previously registered 'T 67', the car was re-registered 'TTU 641D' in November 1978 while in the care of second owner Roland Duce, of Market Overton. The DB6 is recorded as having competed at the AMOC's Curborough sprint in 1982 driven by its next owner, R L Belton, placing 3rd, while in 1986 the engine was fully rebuilt by Ian Moss following a big-end bearing failure at a Thruxton track day. By this time the Aston was in the hands of fifth owner Robert Adams, who commissioned a comprehensive chassis restoration in July 1987. Further extensive renovation was undertaken by Car Care Aston Heritage Centre on behalf of the car's sixth owner, David Batchen, during 1999/2000 at a cost of £25,000. Work carried out included chassis repairs wherever necessary, renewal of all chromework, fitting new stainless steel wheels and exhaust system, a complete interior re-trim in tan leather and bare metal re-spray in Midnight Blue. Acquired by the current (seventh) owner in June 2007, the car has since benefited from an engine top-end overhaul (all new valves, springs, guides, etc) carried out by Ian Moss in January 2008, while the brakes were overhauled earlier this year. A full set of new tyres was fitted in 2008. This is a wonderful DB6 that has never been spoilt and has spent its entire life with enthusiastic owners. The recorded mileage total stands at 108,000 today, though that figure is somewhat academic given the degree of restoration. Described by the private vendor as in excellent condition, the car is offered with sundry restoration invoices, current MoT/road fund licence and Swansea V5. In addition, '2419' comes complete with its original handbook, jack and wheel hammer, new Aston Martin tool kit and a substantial file of history dating back to 1979.