Lot 220: Aston Martin DB6 Mk2 Vantage Sports Saloon

In 1958 Aston Martin introduced its DB4 model, the first of a line which culminated in the DB6 built between 1965 and 1969. A key factor in the success of the DB6's DB4 progenitor was general manager John Wyer's decision that the new car be styled in Italy, rather than by the works, and the commission was superbly executed by Touring of Milan. The platform chassis was the work of Aston Martin's chief engineer Harold Beach, while the new twin overhead camshaft engine had been conceived by his colleague, Tadek Marek, and race tested in the DBR2 before its production debut in the DB4. With the arrival of the DB5 in 1963, engine capacity was upped, by enlarging the bore from 92 to 96mm, from 3.7 to 4.0 litres and this power unit was carried over to the DB6 for 1966. Power output on triple SU carburettors was 282bhp, rising to 325bhp in Vantage specification on triple Webers. Borg-Warner automatic transmission was offered alongside the standard ZF five-speed manual gearbox, and for the first time power-assisted steering was an option. The DB6 differed from its predecessors in having a longer wheelbase which, at 8' 5¾", was 3¾" longer than that of the DB5. This meant more room for rear passengers, which made the DB6 more of a family man's car and helped it sell better than the earlier models in the series. The bodywork was distinctive, with a slightly higher roofline than the DB4 and DB5, and featured an aerodynamically efficient abbreviated 'Kamm' tail. In the summer of 1969 the Mark 2 DB6 was announced in saloon and convertible (Volante) versions. Distinguishable by its flared wheelarches and DBS wheels, the DB6 Mark 2 came with power-assisted steering as standard and could be ordered with AE Brico electronic fuel injection. When DB6 production ceased in 1970, a total of 1,575 saloons had been made, plus 178 of the long-wheelbase Volante convertibles. First registered on 10th March 1970 this highly original DB6 Mk2 Vantage has had only four owners from new, last changing hands in 1988. Although we are unable to substantiate the mileage, we feel the 33,722 miles recorded on the odometer is accurate, mainly supported by maintenance records from 1980 onwards and previous MoT certificates. 'OPP 612H' has been maintained by Aston Martin Works Service, R S Williams Ltd and respected marque specialists, details of which are contained within the history file. Put into storage in 1999 and SORN'd for the last ten years, the car has recently been re-commissioned by Aston Martin Heritage specialists Nicholas Mee & Co. Works included overhauling the steering rack, rebuilding the front suspension, overhauling front and rear brakes with new discs and pads, an overhaul of the callipers, new hoses and servos and a new stainless steel exhaust system. In addition, a new fuel pump and filters have been fitted and the entire fuel system cleaned out including the tank, lines and Weber carburettors. The engine has been tuned and a set of new tyres and tubes fitted also. Now returned to the road, freshly MoT'd and taxed, the car drives as it should and is ready to be enjoyed. Finished in Oyster Shell Grey with Burgundy leather interior, 'OPP 612H' comes with a most comprehensive file of history including expired MoTs and SORNs, sundry service/maintenance invoices, details of past owners and Swansea V5 registration document