1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Sports Saloon
Chassis no. DB6/2516/L
Engine no. 400/2521/V

The culmination of Aston Martin's long-running line of 'DB' six-cylinder sports saloons, and thus considered by many to be the last 'real' Aston, the DB6 was introduced in 1965, updating the DB5. Although recognisably related to the Touring-styled DB4 of 1958, the DB6 abandoned the Superleggera body structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. The wheelbase was now 4" longer than before, resulting in an extensive re-style with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. Opening front quarter lights made a reappearance, but the major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds.

'The tail lip halves the aerodynamic lift around maximum speed and brings in its train greater headroom and more luggage space,' revealed Motor magazine, concluding that the DB6 was one of the finest sports cars it had tested. 'The DB6 with its longer wheelbase and better headroom makes an Aston Martin available to the far wider four-seater market, and the design is in every way superior to the previous model. A purist might have though that the longer wheelbase would affect the near-perfect balance of the DB5, but if anything the DB6 is better.'

Motor clearly appreciated the power and poise of their test Vantage: 'In an effortless way that few other cars can match, the DB6 makes an overall speed limit of 70mph look quite ridiculous. At its maximum speed of more than twice this, it is reassuringly stable, probably more so than many cars struggling to maintain their 70mph convoy speed. If you need to stop from high speed the brakes are outstandingly powerful, a point which really needs remembering if there is a less well endowed vehicle behind; and the handling in both wet and dry conditions is superior to all but a couple of the production two-seater sportscars we have tested.'

Currently in the hands of only its third owner, who purchased it at Bonhams' Monaco sale in May 2011 (Lot 124), this left-hand drive DB6 Vantage was sold new in France via Aston Martin agent Garage Mirabeau to Compagnie Francaise De Produits Métallurgiques in Paris. The accompanying copy build sheet reveals that the car was delivered with various options that included the 3.73:1 limited-slip differential, 3-ear hubcaps, chromed wheels, heated rear screen and power-operated aerial.

The Aston is offered in essentially un-restored condition, although the preceding owner carried out various works and fitted numerous new parts. The latter include a complete clutch assembly, stainless steel exhaust, stainless steel fuel tank, all braking system hydraulics, Weber carburettor kits (x3), fuel pump, alternator belt, battery and an electronic ignition system. In addition, the windscreen wiper and fuel tank sender have been overhauled. Works still to be carried out include re-upholstering the front seats, repainting the body, fitting new front/rear windscreen seals, re-trimming the interior and making final adjustments to the carburettors. A full list of the above plus some helpful operating instructions comes with the car. Finished in Burgundy with black leather interior, '2516/L' is offered with sundry service invoices and French Carte Grise.

Should the vehicle remain in the UK, local import taxes of 5% will be applied to the purchase price.