Lot 155: 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Saloon

The culmination of Aston-Martin's long-running line of 'DB' six-cylinder sports saloons, the DB6 was introduced in 1965. Recognisably related to the Touring-styled DB4 of 1958, the DB6 abandoned the Superleggera body structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. The wheelbase was now 4" longer than before, resulting in an extensive restyle with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. Opening front quarter lights made a reappearance, but the major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds. 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. Motor magazine clearly appreciated the power and poise of their test Vantage: "In an effortless way that few other cars can match, the DB6 makes an overall speed limit of 70mph look quite ridiculous. At its maximum speed of more than twice this, it is reassuringly stable, probably more so than many cars struggling to maintain their 70mph convoy speed. If you need to stop from high speed the brakes are outstandingly powerful, a point which really needs remembering if there is a less well endowed vehicle behind; and the handling in both wet and dry conditions is superior to all but a couple of the production two-seater sportscars we have tested." This DB6 Mark 1 Vantage was acquired by the vendor (its third owner) in 1987 but has seen little use since as he has been overseas much of the time. Between 2003 and 2005 the car underwent extensive refurbishment. The engine and gearbox were removed and the former treated to a comprehensive cylinder head overhaul, the cylinder bores having been inspected and found to be without visible wear or damage. After overhaul the motor was reassembled and reinstalled, using all new mounts and hoses, in the cleaned and refurbished engine bay. Other works carried out include overhauling the water pump, Weber carburettors and clutch master/slave cylinders, while new parts fitted include the clutch plate and release bearing, oil and water temperature gauges/sender units, and the thermostat. The running gear too has undergone extensive restoration; the brakes, servos, steering, suspension and rear axle all being overhauled, while the body was stripped back to bare metal and repainted. Apart from new headlining and minor re-trimming, the interior remains original. Looking superb and reported to be driving beautifully, the car is offered with (copy) ownership records, restoration invoices, current road fund licence, MoT to February 2007 and Swansea V5 registration document.