• Chassis number '00001'
• Built to Gulf/Saudi specifications (see text)
• Manual transmission
• Offered from an extensive private collection
• Requires recommissioning

Reviving a famous model name from Aston Martin's past, the DBS was based on the DB9 and replaced the outgoing Vanquish S in 2008 as the company's top-of-the-range supercar. Before then, the world got a mouth-watering preview when a DBS appeared in Casino Royale (2006), Daniel Craig's debut in the role of James Bond. The DBS also appeared in the opening sequence of Quantum of Solace, the follow up film released in 2008.

In styling terms, the DBS was clearly a development of the DB9 but with the additions of a carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser among others. State-of-the-art manufacturing techniques were employed in making the aluminium/composite body, which was robotically assembled using a combination of self-piercing rivets and adhesive. The aluminium chassis is known as the 'VH Generation 2' platform, 'VH' referring to its vertical and horizontal adaptability.

The DBS was powered by a development of the 6.0-litre, 48-valve, V12 engine found in other Aston Martins, producing 510bhp initially, an output sufficient to propel the aerodynamic coupé to a top speed of 305km/h (190mph) in manual transmission form, with 60mph attainable from a standing start in a neck-snapping 4.3 seconds. The aluminium engine was mounted as far back as possible in the chassis, while the transmission/final drive was combined in a rear transaxle, resulting in 85% of the car's mass being sited between the axles and a perfect 50/50 front/rear weight distribution, with commensurate benefits to handling, roadholding and controllability. Transmission options were a six-speed manual or six-speed 'Touchtronic 2' paddle-shift semi-automatic, while the striking 20" wheels were considered by some to be the best looking on any Aston Martin.

Inside the DBS one finds the typically elegant, luxurious and supremely comfortable hand crafted interior traditionally associated with Aston Martin, featuring primarily wood and leather trim as well as the latest in modern technology, subtly deployed. Production ceased in 2012.

Copy factory paperwork on file lists the car as built to US Specifications, although DBS's VIN plate declares that chassis number '00001' was built to comply with Gulf/Saudi specifications. The car was delivered with Lightning Silver paintwork as per the build sheet. The cars speedometer (in MPH) records a little over 900 miles but it does not carry the side marker lights typical of a US-Specification car. Our vendor purchased the car new in January 2008, since when it has been kept on static display as part of his extensive private collection. Due to its long period of static display recommissioning may be required before it returns to the road.

Please note that this vehicle is only offered with a photocopy of its old registration document; prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard 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 stay in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the standard rate of 20% and Import Duty at 10%+VAT 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. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.