1968 Aston Martin DBS Fastback Coupe

The Aston Martin DBS was introduced in 1967 and was the successor to the DB6. It had a new and modern appearance and received its styling in-house by William 'Bill' Towns. The all-new model also veered from Aston Martin tradition by not adding a number to the 'DB' prefix.

The DBS was wider and had a lower profile than its predecessor. The wheelbase was enlarged by an inch and the track width grew by five inches. The body width was also six inches larger. Its appearance was more aggressive looking and allowed more interior room for its passengers. The engine sat farther back in the chassis, behind the front axle, resulting in an almost 50/50 weight ratio. Using a de Dion rear axle, the DBS exhibited excellent handling characteristics. Much of the running gear and chassis were shared with the prior DB6. The weighed was considerably more than its predecessor.

Powering the DBS was a dual-overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine with an aluminum alloy block and head. It offered 282 horsepower and was mated to a ZF five-speed manual gearbox. A Borg-Warner automatic was available as was an option Vantage engine rated at 325 horsepower. An AE-Brico fuel injection system was available as optional equipment. Due to its unreliable performance, very few engines were fitted with this feature.

The interior was luxurious with Connolly hides. James Bond used a DBS as his motorcar of choice in the 1969 film On Her Majesty's Secret Service, and again in the next Bond film Diamonds are Forever

Chassis no. DBS/5200/LAC
This car was built in December of 1968 and is a left-hand drive example fitted with the 5-speed ZF manual transmission. It has air conditioning, power steering, two lap belts, dual Fiamm horns, Avon tires and a Bosch New Yorker radio. It was finished in Midnight Blue over a dark blue interior, and destined for the US market.

Delivered new to Blalack Wells Associates, a San Marino, California based dealer, the car is believed to have remained in California all its life. It was acquired by Long Beach resident Peter Allan in the mid-1980s and remained in his ownership until purchased by the current owner. The car has received restoration work over the years, including an engine rebuild and replacement of the clutch. It was given a full cosmetic refurbishment, including new seat upholstery and a bare metal repaint in single stage lacquer.

The car has been shown at several shows including the Dana Point and Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance events.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2013