1965 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe

It is believed that just 65 Vantage-spec Aston Martin DB5s were original produced. Of those, around 40 were right-hand drive cars and only about 25 export models in left-hand drive configuration. This particular LHD Vantage model was factory-finished in Silver Birch over Champagne leather upholstery. It was completed on June 17th of 1965 and two days later it was dispatched to Société Nouvelle du Garage Mirabeau in Paris, France.

The DB5 Vantage was a higher-performance version of the DB5 and it was introduced in September of 1964. The prototype, DP 217, bore chassis number DB5/1451/R and was given three Weber twin-choke sidedraft carburetors and a five-speed gearbox. Other upgrades included on the Vantage model included flow-tuned 'ram' intake manifolds, larger ports, more aggressive camshaft profiles, ignition timing with greater advance, and a vacuum power-brake reservoir. With these improvements, power rose from 282 BHP in standard tune to 314 BHP (some sources quoted as high as 325 BHP). Top speed rose and 0-60 mph acceleration dropped significantly.

This Vantage-specification DB5 was equipped from the factory with chrome wheels. It was exported to the United States where it eventually became the property of Jean Denoyer. In 2002, he commissioned a total restoration which cost over $130,000. Among the work performance was an enlargement to the engine, increasing its displacement size to 4.2 liters. It was given an air-conditioning, suspension upgrades, and a refinish in Goodwood Green paint over 'Pale Pumpkin' Tan Connolly leather.

Soon after the work was completed, it was acquired in 2002 by the current owner. The current owner used the car on Arizona's Copperstate 1000 rally in 2009 and on the Legends Rally through Napa Valley, California, in 2012. On the show field, it has won awards in Central Coast British Car Club events in 2010.

The car is currently fitted with a more modern five-speed manual gearbox, however the original ZF unit accompanies the car.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2017