Highlights

Matching numbers
Mille Miglia eligible
Comprehensively restored 2004-5
Big mechanical overhaul last year
Ready to be enjoyed!

The Appeal

The build of Mark II of Aston Martin’s pretty and capable grand tourer, the DB2/4, began in 1955 and introduced a multitude of changes that included a new 2965cc straight six engine producing 165hp, driving the rear wheels via a four speed manual gearbox. Aston wasted no time in demonstrating the car’s capabilities, entering three works cars into the 1955 rally of Monte Carlo and coming home with the team prize.

They also fielded two cars in the Mille Miglia later that year, which means that the DB2/4 is eligible for the modern day recreation of the event, and offers the attractive benefit of a roof over the heads of the competitors, a luxury not afforded to a good number of other qualifying cars.

This example has a heritage certificate to show that it is a matching numbers car and was the subject of a comprehensive restoration in 2004-5 which was extensively photographed. The car has seen only limited use since. This means that it remains in great condition and, having received a thorough mechanical refresh just last year, is ready for whatever usage the next owner has in mind, be that classic rallies, touring or attending shows and owner’s club meetings.

Whatever your plans for it, you can be sure that you’ll be the envy of the other participants and onlookers alike and can rest assured that it should be a sound investment too.

The History and Paperwork

Bought as a project in 2001 in the US
Completely restored 2004-5 with full photographic record
Now registered in Holland
Comprehensive mechanical refresh last year with invoice for €5,800
Documentation includes a copy of the Aston Martin Register from 1984 in which the car is listed, and a heritage certificate which shows that this is a matching numbers car

The Interior

Fully retrimmed
Lovely condition
Correct toolkit in armrest

Sliding into the cabin of this DB2/4 is almost like stepping back in time, for despite the restoration dating back to 2005, the interior is almost like it would have been when new. The seller reports that there is an evocative aroma of the leather and that the steering wheel and dashboard are unmarked. The seats show a couple of marks from the entry and egress in the form of slight wear to the driver’s side seat bolster and a scuff to the top corner of the front passenger seat but otherwise they show no signs of wear.

The useful rear seats don’t look ever to have been sat in and fold down to make a convenient flat load space which is accessed through the rear hatch. A neat hidden feature is the presence of a toolkit which is stored in the armrest between the front seats and which is fully stocked. Up above, the luxurious cashmere headlining is clean and taut and the vendor informs us that all of the dials, buttons and switches are fully operational.

The Exterior

Presents very well
Paintwork almost unmarked
Very good chrome work
Freshly painted wire wheels

Finished in maroon, the exterior complements the red leather interior beautifully and, given its limited mileage in recent years, the paintwork remains in excellent condition with just a few minor signs of use. Likewise the chrome is all very well preserved with a mirror-like finish to the bumpers and only some minor patina to the window trim.

The freshly painted black wire wheels lend the car a slightly more modern aesthetic and are unmarked. The car is shod with a matching set of Vredestein tyres which, although their age may dictate that they be replaced in some jurisdiction, have plenty of tread remaining and show no signs of cracking or ageing.

Underneath, the car is very clean and shows little signs of use, with only light surface corrosion on a few components. In fact, it looks quite likely that the car has not seen a wet road since its restoration.

The Mechanics

Pristine engine bay
Kenlowe fan
Drives exactly as it should

Nestling under the front-hinged bonnet, the engine is neatly presented and shows the hallmarks of a quality restoration with modern materials deployed sympathetically and appropriately to improve reliability and longevity, and a switchable Kenlowe fan as an insurance policy against overheating. It starts on the button and the vendor, who has broad experience of the model, informs us that it drives exactly as a DB2/4 should, pulling well through the gears, changing smoothly and with the brakes pulling it up firmly and in a straight line.

The steering is reportedly a little heavy at slow speeds, as is characteristic, but becomes much more manageable with some speed, while the sound from the exhaust is pure sixties straight six magic. Happily there are no untoward noises to report nor any leaks or smoke. Mechanically, it’s ready to go.

Summary

A beautifully restored example of Aston’s sixties grand tourer which has seen only light use since restoration and is ready for new adventures.

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