Chassis No.: DB5/2058/R

Engine No.: 400/2067

Registration: HJB 753C

To the casual observer, the 1963 DB5 is virtually indistinguishable from a late model DB4 Vantage; the DB5 is essentially a 4 litre version of the DB4. Initially fitted with the four speed David Brown gearbox, the vast majority of cars received the superior five speed gearbox either as an option or later as standard fitting. So why is the DB5 so often thought of as the quintessential Aston Martin? Without doubt this is due to a Silver Birch example featuring in the 1964 James Bond film, Goldfinger complete with special modifications and hidden weaponry.

With 007 behind the wheel of the sensational sports GT, demand outstripped supply - the factory just couldn't really capitalise on the marketing success of the DB5. Even today, DB5's are highly regarded and change hands for sums significantly greater than for either a DB4 or DB6. The standard DB5 engine was equipped with three SU carburettors, but also as an option, a so called 'GT' engine was also made available but with triple Webers to replace the SU's. These DB5 Vantages were quoted as producing 314bhp making them capable of around 150 mph and 0-60 acceleration times in around six and a half seconds.

This freshly restored Aston Martin DB5 was originally sold to Mr. Ernest Jones of Canterbury, Kent before being sold in 1985 to David Barnes of Kilmarnock in Scotland. It was purchased by the current owner three years ago whereupon a comprehensive restoration was started. The car was stripped in the initial stages to assess the overall condition of the body and moving parts and once the engine and gearbox had been removed, they were taken apart and fully inspected. All waterways were cleaned ensuring a good running temperature with just 600 miles driven since. This was undertaken by J. M.

Dunn, a specialist in the field and his detailed notes are enclosed in the comprehensive history file that accompanies this Aston Martin. Just shy of 220 hours were noted down during the rebuild of the engine and gearbox alone. The paint was next to be removed; Xenon Worx of Iver in Buckinghamshire looked after this and went to enormous trouble to ensure a perfect paint finish from its bare metal shell. The interior trim, including boot, was replaced in its entirety by Classic Trimmers of Maidenhead. The loom was re- furbished, mainly because modern DB5 looms curiously come with fewer wires than their original counterparts.

All instruments have been checked and recalibrated and all chroming, including wire wheels, are in good order. Complete with power steering added in later life, correct jack and brace and even its handbook present, this highly collectable and most famous of David Brown’s creations has been put together well and would provide a significant investment for the future.

https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=10716&au=28