1969 Aston Martin DB6 Mark 2 Automatic Sports Saloon
Chassis no. DB6MK2/4117/R
Engine no. 400/4317

In 1958 Aston Martin introduced the DB4, the first of a line that would culminate in the DB6 built between 1965 and 1969. Introduced at the 1965 London Motor Show, the DB6 was recognisably related to the Touring-styled DB4 but abandoned the Superleggera body structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. At 8' 5¾" the wheelbase was now 3¾" longer than before, resulting in an extensive restyle with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. The result was significantly increased interior space, making the DB6 a genuine four-seater and greatly extending its appeal. Opening front quarter lights reappeared but the major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds. This device had first been tried on the DP214 and DP215 DB4GT-based Le Mans prototypes, yet another example of racing improving the breed.

Introduced in July 1969, the DB6 Mk2 incorporated many components shared with the new DBS, most obviously the latter's wider wheels that necessitated flaring the front and rear wheelarches. All Mk2 Vantages came with the highest (325bhp) 'C' state of tune, while all cars benefited from power-assisted steering as standard. Production lasted until November 1970, during which time 240 DB6 Mk2s were manufactured.

Last-of-the-line models are always sought after by discerning collectors, and few are more highly prized that the final flowering of the glorious 'David Brown' six-cylinder series, considered by many to be the last of the 'real' Aston Martins. This Mk2 DB6's accompanying copy order form reveals that it was first owned by The Viscount St Cyres of Shillands House, Upton Pyne near Exeter. Apart from the Borg-Warner automatic transmission, two front seat belts are the only significant items of non-standard equipment listed. The original colour scheme is given as dark blue with matching Connolly hide interior, and car's original registration is recorded as 'RUO 666H'.

From 1983 to 1999 the DB6 was owned by an AMOC member but nothing else is known of its history, though it is worth noting that the car was last UK-taxed in 2006 in County Durham and carries an Aston Workshop tax disc holder. Refinished in Silver Birch with – possibly – its original dark blue interior trim, the car displays a total of circa 70,000 miles on the odometer and is believed to have been sold to the current vendor by Aston Workshop.

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