• Delivered new to Switzerland
• Desirable ZF five-speed manual transmission
• Present ownership since 2008
• Offered from long-term static display
• Requires recommissioning

Last-of-the-line models are always sought after by discerning collectors, and few are more highly prized that the final flowering of the glorious DB series of six-cylinder Carrozzeria Touring-styled sports saloons. The culmination of this long-running line, and thus considered by many to be the last 'real' Aston, the DB6 had been introduced in 1965, updating the DB5. Although recognisably related to the Touring-styled DB4 of 1958, the DB6 abandoned the Carrozzeria Touring-developed Superleggera tubular body supporting structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication while retaining the aluminium outer panels. Somewhat confusingly, 'Superleggera' badges continued to be applied by the bodyshop until stocks ran out!
Increased rear-seat space was the prime DB6 objective so the wheelbase was now 3¾" longer than before, resulting in an extensive re-style with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline, and reshaped rear quarter windows. Opening front quarter lights made a reappearance but the major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds. These many dimensional changes were integrated most successfully, the DB6's overall length increasing by only 2". Indeed, but for the distinctive Kamm tail one might easily mistake it for a DB5.
The Tadek Marek-designed six-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3,995cc for the preceding DB5 and remained unchanged. Power output on triple SU carburettors was 282bhp, rising to 325bhp in Vantage specification, complete with triple Webers. Borg-Warner automatic transmission was offered alongside the standard ZF five-speed gearbox, and for the first time there was optional power-assisted steering.

The accompanying (copy) factory paperwork records that left-hand drive chassis '2362/L' was delivered in March 1966 to its first owner, the State Council President of Geneva, Mr Edouard Chamay, in Switzerland, and that it left the Newport Pagnell factory finished in the iconic 'James Bond' livery of Silver Birch with black Connolly leather interior. Chrome wheels, a heated rear screen, 2-ear hubcaps, and exhibition plates lettered 'DB6' are among the items of special equipment listed.
A dealer's advertisement on file dating from 2008 states that the Aston had had only three owners and enjoyed 'meticulous Swiss care'. The odometer reading was quoted as 101,000 kilometres. Our vendor purchased the car that same year, since when it has been kept on static display as part of his extensive private collection; recommissioning will be required before it returns to the road. Additional documentation includes copies of the 2008 sales agreement and Swiss Carte grise.

Please note that if this vehicle is sold to a French private buyer or an EU private individual the reduced rate of Import VAT at 5.5% will be charged on the hammer price. The Import VAT will be invoiced to you by our custom broker who will also charge a clearance fee. If you buy as a Trader or Company however, the Finances Publiques will charge you directly (based on our customs broker clearance) and the French VAT Import Charges will not appear on your Bonhams invoice. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, you are required to pay the VAT in your registered country at the relevant rate. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearance. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.