Lot 752: 1966 Aston Martin DB6 MkI Saloon

Replacing and updating the previous DB5 in 1965, the DB6 was the last of the long-running line of David Brown ‘DB’ models and, as such, was therefore considered by many enthusiasts for the marque as being the last of the ‘real’ Astons. Aware that increased headroom and legroom was required to extend the car’s appeal to a wider market, the then Newport Pagnell factory lengthened the wheelbase by 4ins, at the same time implementing extensive restyling to incorporate more raked-windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter-windows. The new model, at least, could now be described correctly as being a Sports-Saloon or Convertible rather than a Fixed Head or Drop-head with occasional rear passenger accommodation.

Opening front quarter-lights made a comeback, too, though the major visual change was at the rear, where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved both appearance and high speed stability. The Tadek Marek designed six-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3995cc already for the preceding DB5. In standard form, the power output on triple SU carburettors was 282bhp, while 352bhp was claimed for Vantage-specification engines. Rather than the standard-fit ZF five-speed gearbox, DB6 buyers could specify Borg Warner automatic transmission and, for the first time, power-assisted steering was an option. MkI Coupe production amounted to 1325 before the MkII arrived in September 1969.

Originally finished in Celeste metallic with dark blue Connolly leather piped in grey, this home market DB6 auto was first supplied to dealers H R Owen 24 May 1996, being first UK-registered KJD 982D 31 December of that year. It was ordered with heated rear screen, chrome wires with 3-ear hub spinners, Fiamm air-horns, power-aerial and a 3.54:1 LSD. AMOC records with the car also confirm first ownership by Ciba of Piccadilly. By 1989, it had been shipped to North America where it belonged to Arnold Goodwin of Trail, British Columbia. By 1993, and in Oregon, it had been acquired by Arlo and Sally Goodwin of Lake Oswego, ownership transferring via Michael William Eshaia early 1999 to Michael Ranger of Frogs Hall, Hertfordshire, then to Colin Wilson of Royston in December 2001 and, more recently, to David Spencer-Percival in London in May 2006.

Recently repainted silver, the bodywork presents well. The apparently still original leather is wearing well for the year, while headlining and carpets were renewed in 1998. More recent receipts detail refurbishment by specialists of wiring, steering, suspension, manifolds and exhaust. The vendor intends to have MOT tested and taxed the car before the sale, so potential bidders are advised to check out the presence of latest certificate and tax disc with our documents desk during viewing. When catalogued, a likely to be original mileage reading of 88,723 miles was displayed.