1969 Aston Martin DBS 6 (Vantage spec)

One of just 767 DBS models ever built, the DBS reflected Aston Martins advances in engineering in the late 1960s by introducing a longer wheelbase steel chassis which offered a near perfect 50:50 weight distribution and better high-speed stability.

Launched at the 1967 Motor Show, the new design featured 'De Dion' rear suspension, dramatic new looks from the all-aluminium body, and power steering as standard. It was instantly in demand, it was a new Aston after all, and the car's appearance in several high profile TV series and films of the day did not do its credibility and desirability any harm.

The Tadek Marek-designed, 4.0 litre, straight-six, double overhead camshaft engine produced 325 BHP in Vantage form and when mated to a close-ratio, 5-speed gearbox, resulted in decent acceleration and a top speed in excess of 140 miles per hour.

This particular car is a star of stage and screen having been featured in an episode of the popular Channel 4 series "For the Love of Cars", hosted by the ever enthusiastic Ant Anstead and the well-known actor, Phil Glenister. Restored by Ant to an extremely high standard, including a bare metal repaint in Olive Green (the same as James Bond in "On her Majesty's Secret Service") and a retrim in Oxblood red leather. The interior also had a new period dashboard, new wood trim, correct steering wheel and new carpets.

The engine was rebuilt by highly respected Aston specialists, RS Williams, and upgraded to full Vantage specification including triple Weber carburettors. At the same time, the auto gearbox was swapped for a Tremec T5 manual transmission, as well as new MWS 15 inch wire wheels with Pirelli tyres, new Koni shock absorbers and high-performance brake pads. The car was sold in the programme to our vendor for £173,400 in Jan 2015. He enjoyed the car for a while but then decided it needed detail improvements and sent the car to highly experienced Aston specialists, Oselli Engineering, where a further £78,000 was then spent (all bills and receipts available), including re-detailing the engine bay which had suffered minor damage in a small under-bonnet fire.

The car today presents and drives perfectly. All the gremlins have been 'de-gremlinned' and the car is now probably the ultimate version of any DBS today. It is offered complete with its history file, a new MOT, and all bills and receipts. This amazing Aston can be bought within our price guide for a significant six-figure saving on the total monies recently spent by our vendor.

What an opportunity!