Aston Martin DB4 Series 2 – Chassis DB4/427/L

The Aston Martin DB4 was never just another step in the marque’s evolution; it was a statement of intent. Unveiled in 1958, its Italian Superleggera body by Carrozzeria Touring and Tadek Marek’s new 3.7-litre DOHC straight-six signalled the dawn of a new era for grand-touring cars. The Series 2, built between 1960 and 1961, refined the formula with lessons learned from early owners: flat-glass, opening rear quarter-lights, a front-hinged bonnet and sharper, more precise handling.

Within this lineage, chassis DB4/427/L is far more than a number. Completed on 19 August 1960 and dispatched on 15 November, it was ordered in left-hand drive for North-American export—but its story began in Europe. Delivered under Aston Martin’s exclusive Home Delivery Scheme, it first wore British registration “423 AGF”, allowing foreign buyers to collect their cars at Newport Pagnell and tour the Continent before shipping them home. First owner Lawrence J. Goldrich did just that, driving across Europe and booking the initial service at Paris’ Garage Mirabeau in November 1960, with only 572 miles on the odometer—an early road-trip that remains an essential part of its narrative.

The DB4 left the factory in an especially alluring specification: Elusive Blue over Connolly leather in white and gold. Its technical ensemble matched the elegance—chrome wire wheels, Marchal fog lamps, Power-Lok limited-slip differential, SU HD8 carburettors, Dunlop brakes, Armstrong dampers, a Motorola 606 radio, Smiths mile-per-hour speedometer and Avon white-wall tyres. The original engine 370/405 and S432/3/533 gearbox are still in place, as is the factory 3.77:1 rear axle. A period-correct oil cooler was later added beneath the front valance, a subtle yet effective upgrade for spirited motoring.

Decades later the car was registered in the Netherlands as AR-85-09, entering a rigorous RDW inspection process in 2010 that culminated in the issue of FIVA Identity Card No. 052826 (2014), confirming its authenticity and superb preservation. During this Dutch period the DB4 underwent a sensitive restoration by H.A. Oosterbroek Automobielrestauratie: the body was straightened, protected and repainted in Racing Green metallic using premium Glasurit finishes, while the interior and mechanical specification were carefully retained.

In 2017 the car earned the coveted FIA Historic Technical Passport (HTP), valid until 2027, certifying it for international competition in GT7, Period E (1947–1961) events such as Le Mans Classic, Tour Auto and Goodwood Revival. This homologation makes DB4/427/L as welcome on legendary circuits as it is in concours circles.

Imported to Italy in 2016 and registered as FD 560 AR, the DB4 passed its technical inspection with ease. Since 2023 it has been recorded in Bologna with matching chassis, engine and gearbox numbers intact.

DB4/427/L embodies the perfect synthesis of British elegance, sporting heritage and the romance of the great grand tourers.
A car to be admired—yet, above all, to be experienced.
An Aston Martin with history, grace and purpose.