Lot 116: 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Saloon

Aston Martin’s post-war evolution took a giant step forward with the launch of the DB4 in 1958. Classically proportioned, the Touring-designed body established an instantly recognisable look that would stand the marque in good stead until 1970. The engine remained an all-alloy twin-overhead-camshaft ‘six’, but W O Bentley’s old 3-litre unit had been superseded by a new design by Tadek Marek. Proven in racing before it entered production, the new 3,670cc engine developed its maximum output of 240bhp at 5,500rpm. The David Brown gearbox was a new four-speed all-synchromesh unit.
Touring’s Superleggera body construction, which employed a lightweight tubular structure to support the aluminium-alloy body panels, was deemed incompatible with the existing DB2/4-type multi-tubular spaceframe, so engineer Harold Beach drew up an immensely strong platform-type chassis. Independent front suspension was retained, the DB2/4’s trailing links giving way to unequal-length wishbones, while at the rear the DB4’s live axle was located by Watts linkage instead of its predecessor’s Panhard rod. Five series were built as the model gradually metamorphosed into the DB5 of 1963. The latter’s distinctive faired headlamps had first appeared on the DB4GT and the newcomer was the same size as the lengthened Series 5 DB4. The 3,995cc engine - first seen in the Lagonda Rapide - was mated to a four-speed/overdrive gearbox; a ZF five-speed unit being an option at first and standardised later.
This DB5 has formed part of the vendor’s private collection for the past eight years. We are advised that the vehicle has been regularly maintained, recent work carried out including an overhaul of carburettors and brakes, refurbishment of the wheels and a professional interior re-trim. Finished in Midnight Blue with parchment Connolly hide upholstery, the car has the four-speed manual/overdrive transmission and the desirable upgrade of air conditioning. Described by the private vendor as “pleasantly original and in good working order,” it is offered with Swansea V5 and fresh MoT.