Fantasy Junction

Description

1965 Aston Martin DB5
s/n DB/2098/R, engine no. 400/2204
Sierra Blue with Butterscotch Leather Interior

Certainly one of the most iconic classic cars, the Aston Martin DB5 is a true blue-chip collectible that ticks every box for desirability. Aesthetically stunning and technically sophisticated, the cars have genuine world-class competition pedigree and are also rare. Couple that with a certain star quality imparted by an intimate association with a certain British spy, and the result is tremendously desirable automobile that will always be in style.

The DB5 is the generally considered to be the epitome of the roadgoing DB line, featuring many refinements over the already impressive DB4, but without the increased weight or lengthened wheelbase of the DB6. The DB4 had made a tremendous impression upon its introduction in 1958, with a sophisticated all alloy dual overhead cam inline-6, strong and rigid platform chassis with Touring of Milan Superleggera bodywork, disc brakes all round, and sophisticated suspension. The DB5 picked up from that point, and was fitted as standard with triple SU carburetors and an increase in displacement from 3.7 liters to 4.0 liters. The covered headlamp front end that had appeared on high specification DB4s was standardized for the DB5, along with a host of other detail changes such as the fitment of red warning lights on the doors (visible when the doors are open), emergency brake warning lamp, twin fuel filler caps, alternator in place of generator, twin master cylinders, and many others. A 5-speed ZF gearbox was made standard relatively early in the DB5 production run and the result of these changes was a faster, more comfortable, and more refined car.

This particular example was sold new in the United Kingdom and was imported to the United States around 1980. The build sheet indicates that the car was originally finished in Sierra blue with dark blue leather interior and sold new on the 22nd of October 1965. The car returned to the factory for service several times early in its life. By the early 2000s, the car had found its way to Pacific Northwest, where it was used in the Oregon Columbia Gorge Classic vintage rally in 2001, 2002, and 2003. It also made appearances at the All-British Fields Meets in Portland in 2001 and 2003. The car was then sold to an owner in Carmel, California, where it was maintained by Randy and Ricky Reed of Antique Auto Restorations, before its current owner purchased it. In 2013-2014, the car was comprehensively restored to the highest standards by marque specialist Vantage Motors in Connecticut. The car was completely disassembled and was also converted to left hand drive. During the restoration, the engine block was returned to the United Kingdom and refurbished by Aston Martin specialist RS Williams. At that time, it was also upgraded to 4.2 liters.

The result of the restoration is a car that is truly stunning. Every aspect of the car, both cosmetically and mechanically, is freshly restored and the result is extremely impressive. The car is wonderfully straight and displays excellent fit and gaps. The paintwork was performed to high standards and is basically unmarked. The chrome was redone and is also pristine, as were the lights and glazing.

The interior was also redone to the highest standards in its entirety. The leather was supplied by the famous Spinneybeck, and the workmanship is first rate, as is the smell. The carpets are high quality dark blue wool, and the headliner was redone as well. The dashboard was fully and correctly restored including new upholstery, paint, and restored gauges and switches. The steering wheel was also beautifully restored although the horn button has some crazing. The interior is otherwise nearly impossible to fault.

The engine compartment was restored to similarly high standards and is both correct and extremely clean. Correct finishes were employed throughout, right down to the red lettering on the oil filler cap. Aside from minor dust and an area of peeling paint on the inner fender below the rear carburetor, the engine compartment is essentially in show-ready condition. The trunk was also fully restored with new carpet and is in beautiful shape.

The car is a pleasure to drive. The engine is well-tuned and sounds fantastic. Having been upgraded to 4.2 liters, it makes ample power and the car pulls cleanly throughout the rev range. There is an impressive feeling of solidity to the chassis and suspension, with an unusually tight and coherent feel that reflects the fully rebuilt suspension. The brakes are effective, the clutch bites well, and the gearbox operates without issue. Overall, the driving experience feels very special and the car is an absolute joy to drive.

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.

Inquire About This Car

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