Footnotes

"The latest models –the DB Mk IIIs –have a number of important improvements and, in addition, a subtle crispness and refinement, as compared with the DB2/4, not easily attributed to any one modification." –The Autocar, 4thOctober 1957.

Two years after the introduction of the DB2/4 MkII came the DB MkIII, 551 of which, mainly saloons, were made between March 1957 and July 1959. Externally the most obvious change was the adoption of a DB3S-style grille, establishing the 'hallmark' look of subsequent Aston Martins, which had been drawn up by Tickford designer, Bert Thickpenny. This restyled nose give the car a more imposing look, while the interior boasted a redesigned dashboard with instruments groupedin a cowled panel ahead of the driver.

The 3.0-litre DBA engine benefited from an extensive redesign by Tadek Marek and featured, among other improvements, a stiffer block, stronger crankshaft, and a new cylinder head with bigger valves. 162bhp was available with the single-pipe exhaust system, 178bhp with the optional twin-pipe version. Elsewhere there were improvements to both clutch and gearbox; Laycock overdrive became available and front disc brakes were standard rather than optional after the first 100 cars had been built, commencing at chassis '1401'. Despite the inevitable weight increase, the MkIII was faster than any of its predecessors with a top speed of 120mph (193km/h).

Its accompanying copy guarantee form reveals that chassis number '1571' was retailed by the Somag agency and delivered to its first owner, M François Ravit, in Morocco. The car left the Newport Pagnell factory in July 1958 finished in Sea Green with beige Connolly hide interior trim, and was equipped with the twin exhaust system. The AMOC Register records the fact that the car was still in Morocco in 1980.

The current owner purchased this DB MkIII from Michael Olu Brinkert of Recklinghausen, Germany in June 2007 (invoice copy on file). Unused for some considerable time, the Aston is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. The car is offered with copies of Garage Lamy invoices; copies old Dutch and French registration papers; and an original Dutch registration document.

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.