1962 Aston Martin DB4 Fastback Coupe

The Aston Martin DB4 was a totally new car that was unveiled at the 1958 Paris Salon. It had a new and robust steel platform chassis engineered by Harold Beech, who had taken over as Aston Martin chief designer from Robert Eberan von Eberhorst. It was given an independent front suspension and a liver rear axle well-located by trailing arms and a Watt's linkage. Four-wheel disc brakes, plus rack-and-pinion steering, were specified for the first time. Under the bonnet was an innovative, alloy twin-cam 3.7-liter straight six-engine, created by Tadek Marek and based upon the DBR2 racing motor. It was fitted with twin SU carburetors and offered 240 horsepower.

This example is a fourth series example that was equipped from new with the desirable overdrive feature. It is an original California, factory left-hand drive car that was purchased by the current owner in Oregon, in a disassembled state, though remarkably complete. The former long term owner had ambitious plans for a restoration, however, the project proved to be too complex.

The car is finished in Rolls-Royce Deep Claret with Aston Martin Terra Cotta upholstery and given a set of complementary beige Wilton wool carpets that are piped in Terra Cotta. It is fitted with a correct jack, hammer, owner's handbook, and a reproduction factory tool roll.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at RM Auctions Monterey, California sale. It was estimated to sell for $475,000 - $550,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car was sold for the sum of $572,000 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2012