• One of only some 55 DB4 Series V Vantages made
• Delivered new in the UK
• Converted from right- to left-hand drive
• Modified for Historic rallying
• Present ownership since 2007
• Requires recommissioning

Manufactured between September 1962 and June 1963, the 'Series V' version of the Aston Martin DB4 was 3.5" longer (allowing for increased leg room and a larger boot) and gained 15" wheels, an electric radiator fan and the DB4GT-type instrument panel. One of the most notable DB4 developments had arrived with the Series IV's introduction in September 1961 when a Special Series (SS) or 'Vantage' engine became available as an option. The SS incorporated a 9.0:1 compression ratio, larger valves and triple SU HD8 carburettors, producing 266bhp at 5,750rpm, a gain of 26 horsepower over the standard unit. Almost all DB4 Vantages were built with the faired-in headlights of the DB4GT, including the car offered here. The DB4 Series V Vantage is one of the rarest and most desirable of the DB range with only some 55 cars built in this final incarnation of the DB4. Indeed, the original 'James Bond' car used in the filming of Goldfinger was a DB4 Series V, as they look virtually identical to the DB5 which at that time was not quite ready.

Originally right-hand drive, chassis number '1120/R' was delivered new in the UK via Francis Motors and first owned by Mr Clifford Martland of Ormskirk. The car was originally finished in California Sage with White Gold Connolly leather interior, and left the Newport Pagnell factory equipped with overdrive; the 3.77:1 rear axle ratio; and a Motorola radio. The accompanying copy guarantee form also records that the original Special Series (Vantage) engine ('1076/SS') was replaced in January 1963 with another Special Series engine, '1083/SS'.

The AMOC Register (2000) lists various competitive outings for '1120/R' at Silverstone, Wiscombe, Curborough and Mallory Park from 1976 through 1980, and records the car's location as Germany, which is possibly where it was converted to left-hand drive. The Aston also boasts numerous other modifications, apparently made for Historic rallying, including a built-in roll cage; km/h speedometer; front spotlights; fire extinguishers; OMP competition seats; Willans harnesses; and additional instrumentation.

The current owner purchased the DB4 via Aston Workshop in September 2007, since when it has been kept in dry storage as part of his extensive private collection. Recommissioning will be required before the car returns to the road. Offered with copies of the 2007 sales invoice and photocopies of old UK and German registration documents, this ultra-rare DB4 Series V Vantage represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of these most sought-after Aston Martin models, already configured for Historic rallying.

Please note that this vehicle is only offered with a photocopy of its old registration document, bidders should satisfy themselves as to registration requirements in their own jurisdiction. Please contact the department for further information.

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.