1967 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Series 1 – Sold

Registered in 1967, this car was built to UK specification and delivered to Zambia. Announced at the London Motor show in 1965, the DB6 was produced until it was superseded by the Mk2 in July 1969. Recognisably descending from the DB4 styled by Carrozzeria Touring, the updated design continues the cowel headlight design from the DB4 Series V but introduced dramatic styling updates especially at the rear with the Kamm tail spoiler.

This sculpted shape of the boot panel not only represented a distinctive design cue, it also improved high speed stability. These many-dimensional changes were integrated most successfully, the DB6’s overall length increasing by only two inches. Indeed, but for the distinctive Kamm tail, one might easily mistake it for a DB5.  Increased rear-seat space was the prime DB6 objective, so the wheelbase was now four inches longer than before, resulting in an extensive restyle with a more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. Opening front quarter lights made a reappearance.  

The Tadek Marek-designed 6-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3,995 cc for the preceding DB5 and remained unchanged. Power output on triple SU carburetors was 282 bhp, rising to 325 bhp in Vantage specification, complete with triple Webers.  This particular DB6 Vantage RHD manual was newly ordered in the UK and is an original factory delivered RHD Vantage car. This example is presented in the classic Aston Martin Silver Birch with original Black Hide which marks a change from its original order colour of Fiesta Red. The car is fitted with its 5 speed ZF manual gearbox and is an all numbers matching example. Like all DB6’s, this magnificent car has an increased wheel base and higher roof line than its predecessor that completed an iconic era of David Brown cars. With the factory delivered triple Weber side draft carburetors it increased power to an impressive 325 BHP making it the fastest GT at the time.  Originally delivered to Zambia in 1967 the car found its way down to South Africa passing through various owner’s hands before being bought in 2010 by the previous owner. After trying several local specialists to tune the engine it was then sent in 2014 to renowned specialist R S Williams in England and upgraded to 4,7 litre specification costing some £ 33,000 and delivering 350 hp as evidenced by the test results that accompany the car. The bodywork was rejuvenated by Orbit and the car presents very well and retains a lot of its originality especially with the interior trim and drives exceptionally well.  It comes complete with original documents, build sheet, invoices and service manuals. The DB6 Vantage is one of only 268 ever made. It makes for a great investment and is fantastic to drive!