1952 Aston Martin DB2 Drophead Coupé
Registration no. JAK 648
Chassis no. LML/50/244
Engine no. LB6B/50/645

Aston Martin owner David Brown's 1947 acquisition of Lagonda made the latter's W O Bentley-designed, twin-overhead-camshaft, 2.6-litre six available for a new sports car. Introduced in May 1950, the DB2 owed much to the Claude Hill-designed DB1, using a shortened and modified version of the latter's chassis and identical suspension. Italian-inspired, the timelessly elegant GT bodywork was the creation of Frank Feeley, and with more power (105bhp at 5,000rpm) and less weight, the sleek DB2 comfortably out-performed its predecessor. Writing in 1952, Autosport's John Bolster enthused: 'The DB2 is a very fast sports car of immense stamina, as a long list of racing successes has proved. (The) model is remarkable for its comfort and luxury, and is also about the easiest thing there is to drive, outside of the "automatic transmission" carriages.' Bolster enjoyed the DB2's outstanding performance and remarked on the car's inherent safety and versatility: 'Whether one would go shopping, to the theatre, on a long-distance tour, or even race at Le Mans, one could have no more perfect companion than the Aston Martin.'

When the DB2 was launched both the Works and many new customers utilized the car's handling prowess and performance for competition use. The legendary Works DB2 Team Cars are well chronicled and vied for honours at the Mille Miglia, Le Mans and here in the UK at Goodwood. When production ceased in May 1953, a total of 411 DB2s had been made, and just under 100 of them the rare and desirable drophead coupé.

This particular example was first registered in December 1952 and is finished in perhaps the most desirable colour combination of all of British Racing Green with a tan interior. The ensemble is perfectly cast with a green hood, and purposeful matching BRG painted wire wheels.

This most attractive car was acquired by the present owner – an Aston Martin collector – in April 2006, and shared a motorhouse with other desirable models from the marque, including DB2 Team Car, DB MKIII, DB4, DB4GT, DB5, V8 saloon and V8 Zagato.

At the time of acquisition, the car had evidently been restored. The body is straight with good shut lines, with paint and brightwork still holding up very well. The interior trim, upholstery and woodwork is all very attractive. Most recently the engine has been completely stripped and rebuilt at great expense by marque specialists Four Ashes Garage of Stratford Upon Avon. Minimal miles have been covered since and the engine will require running in. These works included a race balanced crankshaft and alloy radiator. Furthermore a new stainless steel radiator grille has been hand crafted, costing circa £5,000. The car is matching numbers, retaining its original engine, and comes with a fresh MoT to May 2016, Four Ashes invoices and V5C registration document.

A highly recommended car in very good condition that has had much expenditure spent upon it and ready for the season ahead.