1969 Aston Martin DBS

108 Bids Winner - eero
1:10 PM, 10 Nov 2022Vehicle sold
Sold for

$54,250

Winner - eero

Background

Originally designed as a successor to the more traditionally styled DB6, the DBS capped its predecessor’s flowing, organic curves with sharply creased nose and tail treatments, but retained a version of its fabulous, race-bred twin-cam straight-six–at least initially.

One way or another, the DB6 and DBS wound up sharing a production line for four years, though by 1971 the older of the two was gone for good. From 1969 a quad-cam V8 was available, though six-cylinder cars are lighter, wieldier, nearly as fast, and arguably sound even better.

  • DBS/5407/LAC
  • 3745
  • V8
  • manual
  • Green
  • Tan / Leather
  • Left-hand drive

Vehicle location
Gardena, CA, United States

Background

Originally designed as a successor to the more traditionally styled DB6, the DBS capped its predecessor’s flowing, organic curves with sharply creased nose and tail treatments, but retained a version of its fabulous, race-bred twin-cam straight-six–at least initially.

One way or another, the DB6 and DBS wound up sharing a production line for four years, though by 1971 the older of the two was gone for good. From 1969 a quad-cam V8 was available, though six-cylinder cars are lighter, wieldier, nearly as fast, and arguably sound even better.

Overview

The auction car is from the second year of production for six-cylinder cars, and the first for V8’s. It appears to be mostly original and complete, and with a fantastic patina.

Exterior

The car wears a striking monochromatic British Racing Green scheme, covering not only its hand-formed aluminum bodywork, but also its knock-off wire wheels. Check out the beautifully styled DBS badge on the car’s tail, as well as the twin exhaust pipes exiting through a factory valance below.

Interior

The cabin presents similarly, displaying what appears to be a nice degree of completeness and originality throughout. Leather could certainly stand to be deep-cleaned and conditioned, but for the most part seems to remain fairly supple and salvageable under it all.

Mechanical

Motivation is provided by Aston engine design legend Tadek Marek’s straight-six, in this form rated at 286 hp and 282 lb-ft of torque. This all-aluminum alloy twin-cam unit debuted under the hood of the DBR2 at the 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans, and would eventually go on to power four generations of Aston Martin roadcars.

DBS ride quality and handling was much improved over the DB6, most of which was thanks to a de Dion rear replacing the older car’s solid axle. Brakes are by four-wheel discs.

Performance was truly world-class for the late 1960s, and 0-60 in under six seconds and 160 mph flat-out are still impressive today, more than half a century later.

History

The auction car is sold with limited documentation.

Summary

With fewer than 850 ever made, the six-cylinder DBS will always be rare, beautiful, and desirable. The auction car’s left-hand drive, 5-speed manual gearbox, a/c, and most of all its colors, make it a true standout.

Estimated $40,000 - $60,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.

About this auction

Seller

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