Description

THE ASTON MARTIN DB5

Racing has played a major part in the development of all Aston Martin engines since Frank Halford designed the original 1.5-litre unit for Bamford & Martin. The 3,995cc 6-cylinder light alloy engine fitted to the DB5 is in all major respects the same as that which powered the 4-litre prototype which ran in the 1962 and 1963 Le Mans 24-Hour races.

The DB5 was introduced in July 1963 and represented a further evolution of the preceding DB4 series rather than the beginning of an entirely new model line. The major change was the adoption of a 4.0-liter version of the (previously) 3.7-liter six-cylinder engine, this enlarged unit having been seen first in the Lagonda Rapide of 1961. Equipped with three SU carburetors, the '400' engine produced 282bhp at 5,500rpm and was mated to a four-speed/overdrive gearbox. Outwardly there was little to distinguish the DB5 from the final Series 5 DB4 apart from twin fuel filler caps, though these had already appeared on some cars. Beneath the skin however, there were numerous improvements including alternator electrics, Girling disc brakes instead of Dunlops, Sundym glass, electric windows and an oil pressure gauge as standard equipment. The DB5's superb performance – 0-60mph in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 148mph – ranked it amongst the world's fastest cars.

Beyond all independent expressions of its beauty and performance, which were well founded, the DB5 was endorsed by the most famous of all Secret Service agents, James Bond. From its debut in Goldfinger in 1964, the model has commanded iconic status throughout the world, whether as seen through images of the suave Sean Connery leaning against a DB5 on a Swiss mountain pass, or children's toys that would jettison Mr. Bond's captor, seemingly no age group is immune to its charms, quite simply the DB5 is part of our culture.

The Offered DB5

Finished in Autumn Gold with black leather hide interior.

Fitted with an automatic transmission.

The car is in excellent condition having had a recent, major restoration.

For further details please contact Roger or Marc on 01508 530491

Stratton Motor Company serving you since 1972.