1971 Aston Martin DBS V8 Saloon

The auction car is a left-hand drive, automatic transmission-equipped car from the final year of the DBS V8.

Subsequent AM V8 coupes bore a new face and name (literally “Aston Martin V8”), and enthusiasts have taken to referring to DBS V8’s (1969 - 1971) as Series 1 cars and AM V8’s (1972 - 1989) as Series 2 through 5.

The DBS V8 is among the rarest of the series, with only 399 made for all years and markets.

The auction example’s striking red over black color combination emphasizes the rowdier elements of its character, though the effect is tempered somewhat by a delicate razor grille and quad headlight treatment. These would disappear for a new nose with 1972’s twin-lamp Series 2.

Wheels are factory 15”x7” alloy items, and the classic tall sidewall look suits William Towns’ timeless bodywork to a tee.

One cabin highlight is the wood rimmed steering wheel with a fantastic stylized DB logo center cap (not horn button–that’s on a stalk). Instruments are large, legible, and good-looking Smiths items, including an interesting 500 rpm increment tachometer.

Designed by the brilliant Tadek Marek, who was also responsible for Aston’s preceding twin-cam straight-six, the quad-cam V8 powering the auction car is an early example topped by quad dual-choke Weber carburetors.

Factory output was something like 345 hp and close to 400 lb-ft of torque, allowing 0-60 times of roughly six seconds and a top speed of 150 mph–when new, these figures made the DBS V8 one of the quickest accelerating and fastest cars on the planet.

The car is offered with some ownership and service documentation.

This is a multi-faceted, multi-talented car for an individual of extraordinary taste. Estimated $40,000 - $60,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.