Aston Martin DB5 Vantage Convertible (1965)

The Aston Martin DB5 is arguably the most iconic and famous car of all time. It burst onto the automotive scene in 1963 as a development of the previous DB4 Series five vantage model which it replaced. Available as both sports saloon or convertible, the DB5 was slightly longer and also heavier than its predecessor. The weight gain was as a result of significant improvements including the fitting of an alternator, tinted glass and electric windows as standard. However, the weight disadvantage was more than made up for by the 4 litre motor fitted to DB5s which produced 282 bhp. Early cars were fitted with a four speed gearbox but had the option of three speed automatic, or a five speed ZF manual unit. The five speed gearbox soon became standard equipment on all DB5 cars. In 1964 the DB5 found fame as the transport of a certain James Bond in the film Goldfinger. After the production of just 898 cars the DB5 was replaced in 1965 by the DB6. Just 123 convertible DB5s were made, though they never used the now typical "Volante" name. The convertible model was offered from 1963 through to 1965. It can certainly be said that the DB5 combines the best features and looks of all the DB models helping perhaps make it the most desirable and sought after Aston of all time.

This luxury grand tourer was an evolution of the final series of DB4, which was named in honour David Brown (the head of Aston Martin from 1947-1972). Standard equipment on the DB5 included reclining seats, wool pile carpets, electric windows, twin fuel tanks, chrome wire wheels, oil cooler, magnesium-alloy body built to Superleggera patent technique, full leather trim in the cabin and even a fire extinguisher. All models had 4 seats and 2 doors. The UK recommended list price of the sports saloon (coupe) in December 1963 was £4,248 including Purchase Tax, the convertible was £4,562.

Chassis DB5C/1906/R is a factory RHD example and was first owned by the famous actress and BAFTA winner Beryl Reid. This rare DB5 convertible has had just five owners from new. Beryl Reid, who took delivery in 1965, kept the car for eight years before it passed via the second owner onto the enthusiast Bruce Coles, where it stayed for 37 years. Having already been re-sprayed from Caribbean Pearl to Midnight Blue and fitted with a new grey hood during Beryl Reid's ownership, this 5 speed manual transmission model, was used briefly as a daily driver before being reserved for use purely on high days and holidays therefore avoiding unpleasant and inclement weather. In circa 1980 the engine was rebuilt with Vantage specification head and cams by an Aston Martin Specialist.

Purchased in spring 2010 by its fourth owner, DB5C/1906/R was treated to a full concours and no expense spared "body-off" restoration at the factory by Aston Martin Work's Service in Newport Pagnell which commenced in June 2010 and was completed in August 2011. A total mechanical restoration to full vantage specification was completed.

This example is accompanied by a comprehensive history file which includes a detailed record of the car's restoration at Newport Pagnell, the original workshop manual, many MOT's, bills and even the original Log book.

With its current custodian for the past seven years, the car has undergone yet further improvement, refinished in Midnight Blue coachwork seen today by world renowned paint specialists Spray-Tec. Having covered just 689 miles since it's restoration in 2011, this example wants for nothing as ready to view immediately at our showrooms just outside of London.

Please note, this vehicle is no longer for sale.