Footnotes

Considered by many to be the last 'real' Aston Martin, the DB6 was launched in 1965, updating the DB5. Although Royal patronage of the marque undoubtedly helped DB6 sales, the car arrived at a difficult time for Aston Martin, with the home economy in a parlous state and the US market subject to ever-more restrictive legislation.

The wheelbase was now 4" (100mm) longer than before, resulting in an extensive restyle with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. The major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds. 'The tail lip halves the aerodynamic lift around maximum speed and brings in its train greater headroom and more luggage space,' declared Motor magazine, concluding that the DB6 was one of the finest sports cars it had ever tested.

The Tadek Marek-designed six-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3,995cc for the preceding DB5 and remained unchanged and power output on triple SU carburettors was 282bhp. Borg-Warner automatic transmission was offered alongside the standard ZF five-speed gearbox, and for the first time there was optional power-assisted steering. A total of 1,575 DB6 saloons had been completed by the time production ceased in 1970.

It is an irony that, having brought the original DB4 concept to perfection in the form of the DB6, Aston Martin then chose to change direction with the larger DBS and successor V8-engined models. Today the accomplished DB6, despite being the most evolved and practical of the original DB family is also, somewhat paradoxically, the most affordable.

Its accompanying copy guarantee form shows that this DB6 was sold new to HRH Prince Mashour Bin Abdul Aziz, a member of the Saudi Arabian Royal Family. An automatic-transmission model, the DB6 left the factory fitted with various items of non-standard equipment including Coolair air conditioning; chrome wheels; 3.54:1 limited-slip differential; heated rear screen; Fiam horns; 3-ear hubcaps; power operated aerial; and power assisted steering. The original colour scheme was Olive with black Connolly leather trim. Two further owners are listed, both in London, UK, though neither change is dated. Service work listed includes converting the car from left- to right-hand drive later in 1967, although it is now back in its original, left-hand drive configuration. The AMOC Register records '3001/L' as being in the USA in 1981. Additional documentation consists of an Aston Martin Vehicle Delivery Handover Checklist dated 14th April 2013, which is believed to be when the car last changed hands. Please note the DB6 has since been on static display and will require recommissioning prior to road use.

Please note that if this vehicle remains within the Netherlands the reduced rate of Import VAT at 9% will be charged on the hammer price. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered country's rate. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.