Lot 448: Aston Martin DB6

The DB6 marked Aston Martin's first real departure in body shape from a design that first appeared as the DB4 in 1958. The DB5 that followed was a truly beautiful car with impressive performance but Aston Martin felt that a wider market required increased front and rear leg room, always a criticism of the DB4/DB5. In order to achieve this the platform chassis was lengthened, increasing wheelbase by almost four inches. This also meant a change of structural design at the rear of the car; like the DB4, the DB5 used the Superleggera method of construction by stylist Touring of Milan, whereby aluminium body panels were attached to a lightweight steel tube frame, but the DB6's extended rear necessitated a stronger and more rigid structure using folding sheet metal frames. Power was provided by the same 3,995cc twin overhead camshaft, straight six engine developing 282bhp at 5,500rpm, although the Vantage engine option was now quoted at 325bhp against the 314bhp of the DB5. Launched in October 1965 at the London Motor Show the DB6 received a warm welcome; although not as graceful as the DB4 or DB5, it was nonetheless an elegant motor car. And despite appearing heavier, it had lost none of the DB5's performance, being capable in Vantage trim of 0-60mph and 0-100mph in 6.1 and 14.9 seconds respectively and a 148mph maximum. This superb manual example was subject to a comprehensive overhaul in 2003 by road and racing car specialists Wren Classics. Work undertaken, as documented by receipts totalling �24,000, reveals attention to the doors, door pillars, front and rear bumpers, rear wheel arches, brakes, clutch and rear suspension. Finished in a handsome colour scheme of white with black interior, this Aston Martin is on the button and represents a very exciting ownership proposition. Described by its current owner as in excellent condition, and with a genuine 72,000 miles recorded, Chassis number DB6/3547R is supplied with a current MOT test certificate valid until August 2009, V5 registration document and numerous bills. With only one registered keeper from 1970, this beautiful and well-documented DB6 represents a timeless classic in fine original condition.