Lot 310: 1965 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. Five series were built as the model gradually metamorphosed into the DB5 of 1963. The latter’s distinctive cowled headlamps had first appeared on the DB4GT and the newcomer was the same size as the Series 5 DB4. Production ran from July 1963 (chassis no. 1251) to September 1965 (chassis no. 2275). At £4,412 – including purchase tax – it was one of the most expensive cars of its day, costing the equivalent of a standard house. The DB5’s 3,995cc engine, first seen in the Lagonda Rapide, was mated to a four-speed overdrive-equipped gearbox, a ZF five-speed unit being standardised later, as with this car.

This original, UK-market, right-hand drive, five-speed DB5 is listed in the Aston Martin Owners Club register and is from one of the last batches manufactured. It was acquired by the vendor in 2004 and was extensively refurbished by respected experts RS Williams in 2004 which included taking the body back to bare metal and repairing all body work; new chrome period wheels; chrome renewed throughout; conversion from automatic to 5 speed manual (it is not known if the car was delivered new with an automatic transmission – an option costing £118 – or converted at a later date); sound and heat insulation; new leather interior trim and upholstery; central locking and alarm; hidden satellite navigation, radio, hard drive music system and CD player; power steering; lightened clutch; improved lights; engine service – the engine was in good condition and required little work; new aluminium multiple core radiator; thermostatically controlled engine cooling; new electric window motors. Since this extensive refurbishment, the car has been driven no more than 500 miles. Ongoing maintenance and servicing has been entrusted to either RS Williams or Stratstones.

EUX 718C is attractively finished in Silver Birch with ox-blood leather interior and is offered with restoration and servicing invoices, current MoT and Swansea V5 registration document.