1963 Aston Martin DB4 Series V Vantage

Built and sold between October 1958 and June 1963, the DB4 developed through no fewer than five series. The first had already undergone a number of improvements, including the fitting of heavy-duty bumpers after the first 50 cars and before the second series arrived in January 1960. A front-hinged bonnet, an enlarged sump and bigger brake calipers were the major changes made on the Series II, while the third series featured separate rear lights, two bonnet stays and a host of improvements to the interior fittings. The fourth series was readily distinguishable by its new grille, with seven vertical bars, a shallower bonnet intake and recessed rear lights and finally the fifth series was manufactured between September 1962 and June 1963 and was built on a 3.5" longer wheelbase allowing for increased leg room and a larger boot. The fifth series also gained 15" wheels, an electric radiator fan and a DB4GT shaped instrument panel. This matching numbers original right-hand drive Aston Martin DB4 Vantage, chassis number "1197', was bought new in August 1963 and has a unique and interesting history, as it's one of just three Series 5 Vantages originally built with an automatic "Borg Warner' transmission. Delivered with some other non-standard equipment including a heated rear screen, Motorola radio, a Sundym glass windscreen and a standard engine to suit the unique transmission. This car has retained all these features apart from the transmission and carburettor set up, where triple SU components have recently replaced the original twin carburetors. Mr. H Seligman purchased the car new and it was maintained and serviced with Aston Martin works for the first 9,000 miles of its life. The original build sheet details specific works completed during this time and confirm original factory specifications. Since purchasing the car in 2004, the current owner, who is an enthusiastic and competitive driver, using his specialist Aston Martin race preparers, has completed a comprehensive mechanical rebuild of the car with the emphasis on maximizing and enhancing the driving experience. A period, 4-speed David Brown gearbox with overdrive has been fitted along with a full handling kit (springs and roll bars), front Koni dampers and billeted aluminum lever arm dampers at the rear. The brakes have been updated with effective stainless steel brake pistons in aluminium piston housings (as per the original Dunlop units) and additionally, adjustable motorised power steering has been installed to further complement the driving experience. The front end is particularly attractive with DB4GT cowled headlights and no overriders, features which were not common to all Series Vs.

Further, well-executed detailing is epitomized by custom made "off-set' Borrani wheels, and a refined leather interior that has been re-trimmed to perfection. All non-original components are neatly presented under the bonnet and as a result, the car now incorporates a perfect blend of originality with all original body panels still on the car, and sympathetic upgrades that contribute to a more involving driving experience. The original automatic gearbox is included in the sale, as the vendor felt that it was an important part of this Aston's history.

One of the most appealing aspects of this DB4 Vantage is the comprehensive history file, and there are factory records on the build sheet from 1963-1966 and informative correspondence from Aston Martin to the first two owners. Between 1973 and 2015, there are a large number of invoices, receipts, tax discs and previous MoT certificates, which all contribute to an informative insight into this car's fascinating history. The DB4 Series V Vantage is one of the rarest and most desirable models of the DB range with, we believe, only 50 built. Indeed, the original James Bond "Goldfinger' car used in filming was, in fact a DB4 Series V, as they look virtually identical and the DB5 had not quite been finished. Lighter and arguably prettier than the later DB5, and wonderfully presented in Goodwood Green with a red leather interior, this exquisite Aston Martin is now in excellent condition and is ready to be driven and appreciated by its next owner.