1972 Aston Martin DBS V8

Highlights

• One of only 402 ever produced
• Ready for full restoration
• Desirable manual transmission

The Background 

The DBS launched in 1967 intended as a replacement to the aging DB6. The car was always designed for the 5.3L V8 engine, however early models (1967-1969) were only available with the same engine as used in the DB6, a 4L straight six producing a claimed 280bhp. In 1969 Aston Martin began producing the DBS with the 5340cc V8 which was a significant improvement of the straight six. 

With a square grille and a fastback rear the DBS was a departure from the styles of the previous vehicles, however it retained many of the trademark Aston features such as the bonnet scoop and side air vents. 

The original DBS came with wire wheels, but the V8 shipped with alloy wheels to help cope with the extra torque delivered by the new engine. The DBS V8 underwent some cosmetic changes and became just the Aston Martin V8 and was in production until 1989.

The History 

The current owner purchased the car in 8th December of 2012 from the children of the previous owner on his passing. 

The car was bought as a project, but due to other ongoing projects he hasn't had a chance to begin and now feels it is time to pass the car on to someone who can dedicate the time to bring it back to its former glory.

The Paperwork 

We don’t have any paperwork detailing the history of the car before the current owner acquired it, there is however the original Aston Martin workshop manual and the V5.

The Interior 

The interior shows signs of wear to the usual places (such as seat bolsters) consummate with the age and mileage. This is a project car and the interior does need attention, however the dashboard is good overall and the dials in particular look very good. 

Whilst there are a couple of small tears we think that a professional clean and treatment of the leather would go a long way to restoring the interior. 

The headlining appears to be in good overall condition, if in need of a clean. As can be seen in the images the stereo is missing and this was the case when the current owner purchased the car.

The Exterior 

As with the interior the car does require attention. There are a couple of small dings to the bodywork (as shown in the images) however the panels are for the most part intact and original. 

All of the gaps for the doors look good and the car still makes quite an impression. It has been at least partially resprayed at some point  as evidenced by a small amount of visible overspray. As with the rest of the vehicle the brightwork does require attention, however it does all appear to be present and intact, so more of a restoration that replacement. 

The Mechanics 

The car turns over but does not start. The undersides look to be in fairly good condition as shown in the images and all parts of the engine are present and complete. 

A few bits have been removed but are present such as the brake calipers. Overall the engine bay appears to be in good condition, if in need of a clean. 

There is significant corrosion on both pillars, this is common with the DBS where the steel meets aluminium, it has however been stored indoors for the entire duration of ownership by the current owner, which has prevented any further deterioration.

The Appeal 

The DBS represented a modernisation and step forward for the Aston Martin marque in the late 60’s and the DBS V8 has come to be a much sought after and highly appreciated classic Aston. 

With it’s bold square fronted grille, fastback rear and high performance (the fastest four seater car in the world at launch) 5.3L V8 it’s hard not to love the DBS. This is a rare opportunity to acquire one of these iconic British cars ready for a full restoration. 

It’s already a gorgeous looking car as it stands now, we’d love to see what a dedicated new owner could do with this fantastic vehicle and a little time. With only 402 made and only an estimated 53 left on the road in the UK, this car really is a very special opportunity, bid now to avoid disappointment, you won’t get another chance like this.

Notice to bidders

Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.

As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.

Please see our FAQ's here and our Terms & Conditions here

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here

Vehicle specification
  • Year 1972
  • Make Aston Martin
  • Model DBS V8
  • Colour Blue
  • Odometer 96,008 Miles
  • Engine size 5340
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Location Devon
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
115 bids
  • ca•••• £53,500 12/01/22
  • Je•••• £53,000 12/01/22
  • Je•••• £52,500 12/01/22
  • ca•••• £52,000 12/01/22
  • Je•••• £51,500 12/01/22
  • ca•••• £51,000 12/01/22
  • Je•••• £50,500 12/01/22
  • Je•••• £50,000 12/01/22
  • si•••• £49,999 12/01/22
  • si•••• £49,750 12/01/22
Message C&C Auction Team

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