1968 Aston Martin DB6 Volante spec

Considered by many to be the last 'real' Aston Martin, the DB6 was launched in 1965, up-dating the DB5. Although Royal patronage of the marque undoubtedly helped DB6 sales, the car arrived at a difficult time for Aston Martin, with the home economy in a parlous state and the US market subject to ever-more restrictive legislation. Though recognisably related to its Touring-styled DB4 ancestor, the DB6 abandoned the Superleggera body structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. The wheelbase was now 4" (100mm) longer than before, resulting in an extensive restyle with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and re-shaped rear quarter windows.

Opening front quarter lights made a re-appearance, 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 tail lip halves the aerodynamic lift around maximum speed and brings in its train greater headroom and more luggage space,' declared Motor magazine, concluding that the DB6 was one of the finest sports cars it had tested. Famed employee, Tadek Marek, designed the six-cylinder engine which 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. Borg-Warner automatic transmission was offered alongside the standard ZF five-speed gearbox, and for the first time there was optional power-assisted steering.

Premiered at the 1965 London Motor Show, the convertible DB6 marked the first occasion the evocative 'Volante' name had been applied to a soft-top Aston Martin. After 37 Volante convertibles had been completed on the DB5 short-wheelbase chassis, the model adopted the longer DB6 chassis in October 1966. The stylish Volante offered four-seat accommodation and was generously appointed with leather upholstery, deep-pile carpets and aircraft-style instrument cluster.

The exceptionally presented model offered for sale today is a DB6 Coupe that has been recently converted to a 'Volante' specification and finished in Aston Martin Gunmetal coachwork with Ocean Green leather trim, brand new matching tonneau and a recent cabriolet hood in black mohair. The recipient of a complete nut and bolt restoration some five years ago, it was at this time that 'BMC 12G' was converted from its original Coupe form to the fabulous Volante specification that it now sports. It truly is a fabulous example made even more desirable by the conversion. Expertly converted, great attention has been paid to ensure that all correct Volante bodywork, quarter lights and windscreen were used to match the originals. The result is a four seater convertible that drives superbly with little or no scuttle shake, something which could not be said of the originals.

The engine has also been upgraded to run on unleaded fuel giving a useful and responsive drive. The specification includes ZF power steering, 5-speed gearbox, chrome wire wheels and now boasts open-top Aston Martin motoring without the accompanying £300,000+ price tag of the original.

Offered with UK V5C registration certificate and current MoT test certificate, this car is wonderfully appointed and is offered with reasonable expectation at £150,000 - £180,000, given the prices of original factory-built Volantes. This car needs to be inspected close up to appreciate the quality workmanship behind it.