Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 79
1965 Aston Martin DB6 Sports Saloon Chassis no. DB6/2393/L/N Engine no. 400/2420
Sold for US$232,400 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 79
1965 Aston Martin DB6 Sports Saloon
1965 Aston Martin DB6 Sports Saloon
Chassis no. DB6/2393/L/N
Engine no. 400/2420
Chassis no. DB6/2393/L/N
Engine no. 400/2420
3,995 DOHC Inline Six-Cylinder Engine
Triple S.U. Carburetors
282bhp at 5,500rpm
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
Independent Wishbone Front Suspension, De Dion Rear Axle
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
The final model of the classic "DB" series
*Equipped for relaxed touring with automatic and air conditioning
*Original left-drive example
*Requires recommissioning
THE ASTON MARTIN DB6
The culmination of Aston Martin's long-running line of 'DB' six-cylinder sports saloons are considered by many to be the last 'real' Astons, and the DB6, arriving in 1965, represented a substantial update to the DB5. While the bloodline to the Touring-styled DB4 of 1958 is clear, the DB6 abandoned the Carrozzeria Touring-developed Superleggera tubular body structure of its predecessors in favor of fabricated sheet steel, while retaining the aluminum outer panels. Somewhat confusingly, 'Superleggera' badges continued to be applied by the body shop until stocks ran out!
Increased rear-seat space was the prime DB6 objective, so the wheelbase was now 3¾" longer than before, forcing 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. The changes were so well integrated that, were it not for the distinctive Kamm tail one might easily mistake it for a DB5.
Tadek Marek's outstanding six-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3,995cc for the preceding DB5 and remained unchanged in the DB6. Power output on triple SU carburetors was 282bhp, in standard specification. A 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 DB6 was very well received, with 1462 "Mk1" examples finding buyers from 1965-1969.
THE CAR OFFERED
Brilliantly presented in bright red over deep blue upholstery, this DB6 Sports Saloon is a well-optioned car, in desirable left-drive, US-Market specifications. The original owner was clearly shooting for a fast, luxurious, and capable GT car, ticking the box for the Borg Warner 3-speed automatic transmission, electric windows, headrests, chrome wire wheels, and an add-on air conditioning system. This DB6 appears to have been cosmetically freshened in the past, and it presents well overall, with a few minor imperfections noted on the otherwise glossy paint. The interior appears original and is quite tidy, with just some creasing and cracks in the front seats. Tadek Merak's superb inline-six shows some light ageing and signs of use on some surfaces but is otherwise tidy. The engine block stamping corresponds with the brass chassis tag, indicating it retains its original engine. This DB6 Saloon was recently part of an extensive overseas private collection and has been on static display since it was last acquired. Please note this car has not been started while in the care of Bonhams and will require recommissioning following its long-term storage. Along with its forbearers, the DB6 is highly regarded as a capable and stylish British GT car, renowned for exceptional performance and comfort.
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