The Aston Martin DB6 was unveiled at the London Motor Show in October 1965 as the final evolution of the celebrated DB4, DB5 and DB6 lineage of the David Brown era. Its extended wheelbase provided improved rear accommodation, while the distinctive Kamm-style tail and integrated rear spoiler increased stability at sustained speeds. The result was a refined yet sporting grand tourer, equally suited to fast continental journeys and more relaxed four-seat touring.

Production continued until 1971, with 1,788 examples built. Approximately 1,325 were Mk. I cars, of which only around 335 are understood to have received the coveted Vantage specification. Combining the more powerful engine with the ZF five-speed manual gearbox created one of the most desirable road-going Aston Martin configurations of the period.

This right hand drive DB6 Mk. I, chassis DB6/3327R, was supplied new by Aston Martin distributor HWM of Walton-on-Thames on 11th December 1967. Its accompanying factory build record confirms that it was specified from new as a Vantage, finished in Olive Green (though oddly the dealer sheet supplied by Aston Martin Newport Pagnell records it as British Racing Green, maybe a late decision colour change). It was equipped from new with the desirable ZF five-speed manual gearbox.

The original Vantage engine, numbered 400/3403/VC, was specified in high-performance 'C' tune with triple Weber 45 DCOE9 carburettors and higher-lift camshafts. In period, this specification was quoted at 325bhp, compared with 282bhp for the standard engine. The recorded ownership history is notably concise. Its first recorded keeper, Thomas Howard of Northwood, appears to have retained the Aston Martin until May 1985, when it passed to Anthony Howard of Sunningdale. There is interesting correspondence between Mr Howard and the Aston Martin Factory in the late 80's. Chelsea Cars subsequently sold the DB6 to Eric Wilkinson of Hampshire in December 2003.

Renowned Aston Martin specialist Desmond J. Smail acquired the car in June 2010. Its original straight-six engine was comprehensively rebuilt and increased to 4.2 litres using new Cosworth pistons, while the cylinder head was modified for unleaded petrol. A comprehensive breakdown of the work done is in the history file. The present owner purchased the DB6 from Desmond Smail in 2011 and has enjoyed it for approximately 15 years. Throughout this long-term ownership, the Aston has been maintained and improved with an emphasis on structural integrity, usability and driving character. Its substantial history file is approximately 100mm thick and contains numerous invoices and hundreds of photographs documenting the work undertaken.

Rawles Motorsport completed a high-quality retrim in black leather during 2012. In 2014, former RS Williams recommended body specialist Alan Smith Motors undertook extensive reconstruction of the rear chassis area and reskinned the passenger door, demonstrating investment in the car's underlying condition rather than merely its outward presentation.

More recently, Aston Martin specialist Chicane replaced the original lever-arm rear dampers with telescopic GAZ units, rebuilt the propshaft and comprehensively overhauled the braking system, including the servos and master cylinder. The car has recently returned from a full service and inspection by the same specialist. Further sympathetic improvements include electronic ignition and halogen headlamps.

Presented in Goodwood Green over black colour combination, this DB6 brings together rare factory Vantage specification, matching-number identity, the ZF five-speed manual gearbox and long-term ownership. The Desmond Smail 4.2 litre engine rebuild and subsequent specialist work have created a well-sorted and highly usable example of Aston Martin's definitive 1960s grand tourer. Consigned by Charlie McCreery

Lot details
Year: 1967
Make: Aston Martin
Model: DB6 Mk. I Vantage
Registration: SPL 605F
Chassis No: DB6/3327R
Engine No: 400/340/vc
Odometer: 68,030

* Matching numbers example
* 4.2 litre Vantage
* Records indicate just four owners from new, current owner since 2011