"Completely hand-built and requiring over 1,200 man-hours to finish, these motorcars are every bit the gentleman’s sporting tourer. Although the DBS was the pre-curser, it shared the same V8 engine until the six cylinder engine option version was phased out in 1972. It benefited, though, from heavier, ventilated disc-brakes, air however -conditioning, fatter tyres and a new and stronger ZF gearbox. With a capacity of 5.3 litres, it was still powerful enough to propel it to over 150mph, heady even by today’s standards. The engine switched back from fuel injection to carburettors in 1973 with the advent of the series III model, also distinguishable by the taller bonnet scoop to accommodate four twin-choke (two-barrel) Weber carburettors.
Originally purchased in 2018 from Aston Martin in Newport Pagnell for the princely sum of £80,000, this Kentucky Blue V8 was scheduled to be used for regularity rallies at various events across Europe. With the vendor living in both London and Switzerland, it suited him well. The car was then sent to Goldsmith & Young Ltd, Aston Martin specialists focusing specifically on the preparation, tuning and racing/performance specification of the marque.
Numerous invoices show the extensive works undertaken during the extraction and complete rebuild of the engine and gearbox rebuild increasing the capacity to 5.7 litres as well as preparation/refurbishment of the engine bay prior to re-installation and fitment. A modern Fenair air-conditioning unit was also supplied and fitted and both front and rear windscreens were extracted to ensure a sufficient seal. Numerous miscellaneous electrical issues have been adjusted including window switches, fans, new boot springs, new heater piping behind dashboard and the re-fit of door glass and runners. Various trim work was also undertaken with seats out, repairs and new boot carpeting. In fact, no expense has been spared in the preparation of this car which makes it now extremely reliable. Additionally, fire extinguishers have been supplied and fitted, contrasting red towing eye, for use, most recently, in the Gstaad Palace Challenge in 2020. More recently, it went back to Goldsmith & Young for a brake upgrade, both front discs and calipers were removed with a new set of AP units fitted as well as a brake slave cylinder, wheel bearings, coils and HT leads. The invoices total an eye-watering £53,884 on upgrades alone.
The vendor is clearly serious about the quality he expects from his motor cars and the next owner will be very well placed to take advantage of an Aston Martin, complete with FIVA registration, where quality has been at the forefront of its preparation."