Lot 046: 1966 ASTON MARTIN DB6

Introduced at the 1965 Motor Show, the Aston Martin DB6 was notable as the first model to be engineered following a factory move from Feltham to Newport Pagnell. Although, it shared the same visage as the outgoing DB5, the newcomer enjoyed notably better high-speed stability and interior space thanks to the provision of a Kamm tail and four-inch longer wheelbase respectively. Grafted over a sheet steel platform chassis, the four-seater's hand-finished aluminium panels helped contribute to a 1,466kg kerb weight. Praised by the contemporary motoring press for its poise and handling, the DB6 employed all-round coil-sprung suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and rack-and-pinion steering. Powered by the fabulous Tadek Marek designed 3995cc DOHC straight-six engine - which was quoted as developing 282bhp and 280lbft in standard tune - the model could be had with either five-speed manual or automatic transmission. Though, even when fitted with the latter no-cost option, it was reputedly capable of 140mph. Finished in Dubonnet Rosso with beige leather upholstery, this exceptional example is variously described by the vendor as being in "very good" (five-speed manual gearbox, chassis, wheels / tyres), "beautiful / original" (interior trim) or "excellent" (engine, electrical equipment, bodywork, paintwork) condition. Warranted to have covered a mere 28,000 miles from new in the hands of just three owners (one of whom kept it for thirty-two years), 'FDS 593D' was on display at the Sterling Motor Mania museum between 2001 and 2006. Repainted to a very high standard by an Aston Martin dealer some seven years ago, other recent work has seen the car treated to a fresh clutch, new wire wheels and minor engine fettling. Stripped down and checked over as a precautionary measure, the unit was de-coked prior to reassembly. The lowest mileage DB6 we have encountered, 'FDS 593D' is summed-up by the seller as "quite simply the finest". Worthy of the closest inspection, this truly special Aston Martin is offered for sale with a mileage verification letter from its long-term keeper, numerous old MOTs, original handbook and MOT certificate valid until January 2009. PLEASE NOTE: This lot is accompanied by an old type V5 registration document.