1974 Aston Martin DBS V8 Series III

Aston Martin had always planned that the 1967 DBS would be powered by its new V8 engine, that had first been seen in 5.0 litre form in the Lola-Aston Martin sports-racing cars. Production problems, however, intervened and the DBS used the 4.0 litre, twin overhead camshaft, straight six of the concurrently produced DB6. It was not until September 1967 that the DBS V8 was finally announced with production commencing in the following April.

The handling was excellent with independent suspension, coil spring/wishbones at the front and de Dion tube at the rear with Watt's linkage and twin radius arms. All this combined to create a perfect platform for Tadek Marek's all-alloy V8. It boasted four overhead camshafts and Bosch electronic fuel injection. The 5,340cc V8 produced an impressive 320bhp at 5,000rpm; the resultant 160mph plus performance was nothing short of staggering in 1970.

This original right-hand drive car we are told is a matching numbers example and has been in the ownership of our vendor for the past 14 years forming part of his private collection. Used only on high days and holidays, in recent years the car has covered less then 200 miles per year and the decision has been decided for a new owner to take stewardship of the car.

It has been privately maintained and lovingly cossetted. In the last year, the car was subject to bodywork repairs at Aston Martin Works Newport Pagnell which included the fitment of a Vantage-spec spoiler, re-cored radiator, new lights and a front end respray to Aston Martin standards.

The interior is excellent throughout and subject to a complete carpet retrim in original Aston Martin Wilton with tan piped edging. New door panels have also been made and with Wilton carpet and Connolly tan leather trim as per original specification. A new full original Aston Martin specification headlining has also been fitted.

A great opportunity to acquire possibly the most drivable of all classic Astons, it's only a matter of time until they catch up to the same status as their older brothers.

*Please note a cherished registration transfer is currently in progress on this car.