Lot 631: 1971 Aston Martin DBS V8 Convertible

Considered by many to be one of the most elegant of Aston Martins, the Volante convertible has been frequently imitated. This manual transmission DBS V8 was purchased by the present owner in 1987 and professionally converted to convertible configuration by Paul Banham, who completed the work in 1988. Perceived as an entry level Aston Martin, the Banham cars deliver V8 power with Volante-type looks at reasonable cost and are recognised by the AMOC. The conversion included substantial chassis stiffening using welded box section steel, re-panelling the boot area, and a bare metal re-spray. On completion ‘WLJ 410J’ was the lead vehicle of classic cars at the opening of the Biggin Hill Air Show. Since 1987, the car has covered fewer than 10,000 miles and participated in several Aston Martin rallies and events, the most notable of which was a trouble-free Millennium Rally to Monte Carlo in 2000. Since then the car has featured in an episode of the BBC 1 Television series Canterbury Tales broadcast in September 2003 and starring Julie Walters.
Since conversion in 1987 right up to the present day, much work has been carried out by specialists, costing in excess of £20,000, much of which is supported by accompanying invoices. Major works undertaken have included engine removal, replacement of crankshaft core plugs, new piston rings, big-end and main bearings, new clutch, limited-slip differential rebuilt, new power steering pump and hydraulic pipes, fixed brake pipes renewed, new flexible hoses and pads, refaced discs, new handbrake pads, Selectaride shock absorbers replaced with Konis from R S Williams, fuel injection system stripped, completely refurbished and set up by specialist, Lumenition electronic ignition fitted together with new coil, distributor cap and plug leads, engine bay refurbishment, new heavy-duty starter motor and reconditioned alternator, new carpets to interior and boot area, stainless-steel exhaust and new tyres. Finished in Ice Blue metallic with dark blue leather interior, the car is offered with road fund licence to October 2006, MoT to May 2006 and Swansea V5.