Description
This very special, right-hand drive, DB5 was supplied through the Eton Motor Group on the 29/ 11/ 1965 finished in in Silver Birch with a red interior, the colour combination it wears today. Studying the impressive history file it is clear 2249/ R has had a fascinating history having been owned by a number of larger-than-life Aston enthusiasts and looked after by some of the best in the business.
After spending time in Germany during the 1980’s and most of the 1990’s (there are numerous items of correspondence on file from previous German owners including registration documents) the DB5 returned to the UK in 1997 and was sold by Desmond Smail to a Mr Colin Stone in 1998. Mr Stone is a very well respected businessman, perhaps best known as the former MD of Guinness and Burger King UK. He owned 2249/ R for the next 14 years and used the services of respected marque specialists, DLS Smail, to look after the car whilst in his ownership. At the time of his purchase, the DB5 was finished in dark blue and the decision was taken to return it to its original Silver Birch. The car’s extensive history file contains details of this colour change and there are a host of invoices and much correspondence on file documenting all the expenditure that has been lavished on this car over the years.
After 14 years of ownership, Des Smail sold the car, on behalf of Mr Stone to a Mr David Irving who owned the car until late 2013. Whilst in his tenure, Aston Engineering were commissioned to carry out a full engine rebuild to a 4. 2-litre, lead-free specification. The decision was taken at the time to use a replacement engine block, however, Mr Irving wisely retained the original (the story of this continues later on).
2013 was a busy year for LBH 651C as, after its engine rebuild, Des Smail, on behalf of the owner, organised for this actual car to be featured by the Royal Mail on a special edition of postage stamps produced to celebrate.
In November 2019 LBH 651C was sold to its current owner, a massive Classic British car collector, where it has been maintained by Dynamic Classics to the highest standard.
