Lot 409: 1960 Aston Martin DB4 Series 2

Launched at the London Motor Show in 1958, the Aston Martin DB4 emphatically demonstrated that a British manufacturer could better the Italians at their own game when it came to constructing the ultimate Gran Turismo. Classically proportioned and instantly recognizable from the moment of its introduction, the touring-styled DB4 established a look that would survive, with only minor revisions, until 1970.

A new design by Tadek Marek, the DB4’s all-alloy, twin-overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine featured ‘square’ bore and stroke dimensions of 92x92mm for a displacement of 3,670cc and developed its maximum output of 240bhp at 5,500rpm. The David Brown gearbox was a new four-speed all-synchromesh unit. An immensely strong platform-type chassis replaced the DB2/4’s multi-tubular spaceframe, the latter being considered incompatible with Touring's Superleggera body construction that employed its own lightweight tubular structure to support the aluminum-alloy body panels. The DB2/4’s trailing-link ifs gave way to unequal-length wishbones, while at the rear the DB4 sported a conventional live axle located by a Watts linkage instead of its predecessor’s Panhard rod.

Manufactured between October 1958 and June 1963, the DB4 developed through no fewer than five series. The first had already undergone a number of improvements, including the fitting of heavy-duty bumpers after the first 50 cars, before the 2nd series arrived in January 1960. A front-hinged bonnet, bigger brake calipers and an enlarged sump were the major changes made on the Series 2, while the 3rd series featured separate rear lights, two bonnet stays and a host of improvements to the interior fittings. Manufactured between September 1961 and October 1962, the 4th series was readily distinguishable by its new grille with seven vertical bars, shallower bonnet intake and recessed rear lights, while the final, 5th series was lengthened by approximately 3.5” (9cm) to 15” (457cm) overall (allowing for increased leg room and a larger boot) and gained 15”-diameter wheels, an electric radiator fan and the DB4GT-type instrument panel.

This DB4 Series 2 is one of only 249 Series 2’s produced. A left-hand drive model, it features the larger hood scoop that graced the early DB4’s. Finished in green with a cream leather interior, ‘DB4/342/R’ has been in the long term care of the vendor, a prominent, well known, mid-California collector and historic racer. As is evident from the success of Bonhams record-breaking sale at the Aston Martin factory in Newport Pagnell, the Aston-Martin marque is on the ascension and we highly recommend this early series DB4 variant.