Lot 306: Aston Martin DB6 Mark II Sports Saloon

The culmination of Aston Martin's long-running line of 'DB' six-cylinder sports saloons, the DB6, was introduced in 1965. Aston Martin lengthened the wheelbase by 4 compared with the DB5 and undertook an extensive re-style, incorporating a more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. Although still recognisably related to the original Touring-styled DB4 of 1958, the DB6 abandoned the Superleggera body structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. The major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds. The 4-litre engine of the DB5 was retained and automatic transmission and optional power-assisted steering were offered for the first time. The Mark II was announced in August 1969 with flared wheel arches accommodating wider tyres, a more substantial Borg & Beck clutch, a changed first gear ratio and power-assisted steering was now standard on all cars. Some 240 DB6 Mark II's were built. This car was acquired in 2004 by the present owner, a time-served motor engineer and garage proprietor. It had previously been on museum display for some eighteen years. The car was found to be in generally sound condition however not to the new owner's demanding standards and a major restoration was embarked upon. This included an engine rebuild with new shells, piston rings, valves, cam buckets, full engine and seal kit and the head was converted to unleaded. The automatic gearbox was removed, cleaned, checked and found to be in good order. Brakes were overhauled, the radiator re-cored and a Kenlowe fan fitted. Starter motor, alternator and petrol pump units were all rebuilt and attention to coachwork and fittings included a bare metal respray in Birch Grey, new inner-sills and stainless steel sill finishers, all brightwork removed and re-chromed, a complete re-trim of seats in black leather with headlining and carpets replaced. Other work included replacing rubber body seals, new windscreen, new headlights, side and indicator lamps, new rear light clusters and many other new parts and fittings. A detailed list of all work is available for inspection. Since restoration this car has successfully covered 2,000 miles or so and the current odometer reading, believed correct, is 84,300. The car is offered with Swansea registration document, current road fund licence and MoT certificate.