Fantasy Junction

Description

1953 Aston Martin DB2 Vantage Drophead Coupe
s/n LML/50/252, Engine no. VB6B/50/1079
Dark Blue with Dove Grey Leather Interior

Aston Martin was poised for success with their new offering, the elegant and powerful DB2. The new W.O. Bentley developed in-line 2.6 liter six cylinder engine featured a twin overhead cam, formerly of Lagonda. David Brown had acquired Lagonda specifically for this engine, and the DB2 was to be the first to greatly benefit from the Lagonda reputation for engineering excellence. The DB2 was not only a technical leap for Aston Martin, it would become a critical GT offering for decades to come. Given Aston Martin’s fledgling status, the DB2 announced their ambitions without hesitation, ready to compete against their only formidable competition, Jaguar. The DB2 achieved success on the racetrack in the 1950 Le Mans race, coming in first and second in the three-liter class. Notable racecar driver Phil Hill purchased A DB2 for his personal use, and Briggs Cunningham became the first to take delivery of the Vantage series DB2, which offered larger SU carburetors and a higher compression ratio, resulting in an increase from 105hp to 125hp as well as 11 second 0-60 times. Roughly 400 DB2s were built (figures range as high as 450), of which only 102 were drophead coupes. Of those cars, fewer still were ordered from the factory equipped with the Vantage engine and left hand drive.

This particular car was ordered new from the factory with the rare Vantage specification and left hand drive, making it one of fewer than 20 in this rare combination. The original engine remains with the car, containing the correct larger SU carburetors and proper “V” engine stamping on both the engine and on the body tag. The current owner purchased the car approximately ten years ago from Al Guggisberg of Oldtimer Garage in Bern, Switzerland. The car was nicely sorted but the current owner decided to bring the car up to a very high standard, resulting in the current condition today. With just 61,000 miles showing, this Aston has been very well cared for over the past decade, maintained by a prominent collector of sports cars with impeccable taste as witnessed in his award winning collection - quite possibly among the finest in the world.

The restoration work began shortly after the current owners purchase. A complete interior and new top was installed in the UK, prior to shipping to the US. Upon arriving in the states, the car was treated to a complete mechanical review and high quality repaint, replacing or refinishing all exterior components and various trim, to a high standard. The paint is of particularly high quality, showing consistent gloss and beautiful finish over the handsome coachwork. The paint has been properly preserved and protected, showing very minor evidence of road use. The elegant rich blue paint is accented with delicate chrome touches, beautifully finished wire wheels shod with Avon radials, and matching blue cloth top. The body panels show very nice fit, excellent bodylines, and all closures operate smoothly and without issue. The emblems, glass, lenses, and various trim are in very nice condition, executed with refinement and detail befitting the Aston Martin name. Of particular note is the subtle and expertly surfaced bodywork on the rear of the car. This gentle rise along the centerline, accented by a chrome trim strip and flanked by voluptuous rear fenders is one of the nicest features of these factory bodied Aston Martins.

The interior is a wonderful harmony of color and material elegance, resulting in a superb visual display. The dove grey interior is very nicely trimmed with excellent fit to the seats, door panels, and the dash. Contrasting dark blue carpeting finishes off the interior with a very British leather gearshift boot and hand tied leather clutch and brake boots - delightful indications of the Vantage performance heritage. Four handsome large-dial instruments of excellent color and clarity fill the wood trimmed center of the dashboard, delivering performance information with a touch of class. The overall interior presentation is quite nice, having been well cared for, revealing only slight evidence of proper use.

Under the hood, the engine and engine bay are very nicely restored and detailed using correct finishes, proper fittings, and appropriate fasteners. The aluminum Twin Cam head covers are handsomely polished with proper finishing to the intake and exhaust manifolds. Throughout the engine compartment, exposed suspension castings, mechanical features, and careful details serve as a reminder of Aston Martin’s innovative engineering, blended with modern restoration craftsmanship.

The car starts easily and settles into a smooth idle once warmed and ready for use. The 4-speed gearbox is smooth and easy to operate, allowing excellent action and easy downshifts. Once underway, the Aston reveals the Vantage racing heritage with very nice, progressive acceleration and great sounds, delivering a pleasant but sporty driving experience. Cornering and braking are surprisingly good given the early 1950s period of manufacture. With the top down and a smooth road ahead, this Aston eagerly pulls you into the driving motivation behind every Aston Martin - prioritizing the drive over your destination.

The undercarriage continues the theme of excellent presentation, showing minor evidence of use on the exhaust and some suspension components, yet clearly indicating the care and maintenance this car has received over the course of restoration and honored stewardship. Inside the spare tire access panel resides a proper spare wheel, correct Millennium jack, tools, and accurate fittings and mounts per the factory designation. Included with the car is an owner’s manual and receipts for much of the work performed over the past decade.

This Aston Martin DB2 Vantage represents a rare opportunity to acquire a very handsome left hand drive example with beautiful cosmetics and proper restoration. The color combination not only exudes elegance, the Vantage designation delivers performance and exclusivity. Certainly ready to show, and mechanically sorted, this DB2 is ready for events and touring showcases. Resplendent in drophead configuration, this desirable Vantage awaits the continued care and delight of the next fortunate enthusiast.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608