Description
Although always intended to house the new Tadek Marek-designed V8, the DBS first appeared with the 4.0-litre six of the concurrently produced DB6. Styled in-house by Bill Towns, the four-seater DBS employed a platform-type chassis with independent suspension all round: wishbone and coil-spring at the front, De Dion with Watts linkage at the rear.
Bigger and more luxuriously appointed than the DB6, the heavier DBS disappointed some by virtue of its slightly reduced performance, but there were no complaints when the V8 arrived in 1969. With an estimated 345bhp available from its 5,340cc, fuel-injected, four-cam motor, the DBS V8 could reach 100mph in under 14 seconds, running on to a top speed of 160mph – a staggering performance in those days and one which fully justified the claim that it was the fastest production car in the world. Even in automatic transmission form the V8 could reach 100mph in around 15 seconds and better 145mph flat-out.
In 1972 the acquisition of Aston Martin by Company Developments brought with it a change of name for the V8-engined cars: out went DBS V8, in came AM V8. This new Series 2 was readily distinguishable by its restyled front that now featured two instead of four headlamps and recalled the looks of the earlier DB six-cylinder cars. Electronic ignition and air conditioning were now standard.
A desirable, automatic transmission model, chassis number ‘11046’ was first delivered in 1973, and as covered a mere 66,300 miles since. Offered with its original instruction booklet, a certicate of authenticity and original brochure it comes complete with a good history file with a vast array of old MoT’s bills and receipts. Reported to drive very well indeed the car is finished in arguably the best colour combination for a V8- Aston pewter light green metallic with complementary back hide. One of the most sought after of post-war Aston Martins, this beautiful V8 is worthy of the closest inspection.
