"To the casual observer, the 1963 DB5 is virtually indistinguishable from a late model DB4 Vantage; the DB5 is essentially a four-litre version of the DB4. Initially fitted with the four-speed David Brown gearbox, the vast majority of cars received the superior five-speed gearbox either as an option or later as standard fitting. So why is the DB5 so often thought of as the quintessential Aston Martin? Without doubt, this is due to a Silver Birch example featuring in the 1964 James Bond film, Goldfinger, complete with modifications and hidden weaponry. With 007 behind the wheel of the sensational sports GT, demand outstripped supply - the factory just couldn't capitalise fast enough on the marketing success of the DB5. Even today, DB5's are highly regarded and change hands for sums significantly greater than almost anything else in the range
This late example DB5 was supplied new by the franchised dealer H W M of Walton-on-Thames and presents well in Autumn Gold with an Oxblood leather interior that was fitted in place of the original beige trim during a comprehensive restoration that took place during the 1980’s. The work was undertaken by coachbuilders, Medcalf and Co. during the tenure of the cars third owner, Mr. Steel of Surrey. We are informed that the odometer was zeroed during the restoration process and now reads 6,767 miles. In October 1995, the DB5 passed into the current family ownership having been purchased from Mr. Steel. The history file for this delightful Aston Martin contains older invoices including a number from RS Williams dating from 1968 through to 1972, a selection of previous MoT test certificates, an old style continuation logbook, various correspondence from current and past owners, AMOC literature, magazines and press cuttings. The six-cylinder engine started immediately when requested and ran well with no adverse noises and the manual gearbox offered a smooth gearchange.
JNJ 5D is being sold on behalf of the estate of its late, enthusiast owner who used the car sparingly during his tenure and attended various owners club meetings. Without doubt one of the prettiest and most iconic cars ever manufactured, a DB5 always causes interest when coming to the market and we expect this car to continue the trend. The association of the Aston Martin marque with James Bond started with the DB5 and the model has retained superiority in the market place ever since. Given the realistic estimate, if you have ever aspired to own a DB5, this really is a gift of an opportunity.
Please note we understand the previous owner - Mr Reg Steel – confirmed that Aston Martin Works Service department at Newport Pagnell undertook the engine rebuild in the 1980s. Invoices for this work are not found in the history file as Mr Steel's company, Acsim Limited, were invoiced for the works. Acsim Limited were liquidated in 1995 thus records are unattainable. The history file does contain a letter from David Eales of Oselli Limited (dated October 1995) recalling that the engine was rebuilt for Mr Steel by Aston Martin Works Service, during the time he was employed by the factory. We are lead to believe Mr Steel also feels a factory replacement block was supplied during the rebuild, and stamped accordingly.
SALE ROOM NOTICE: Please note that the speedometer on this car has recently stopped working.
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