1962 Aston Martin DB4 Series 4 Vantage

Chassis No. DB4/986/R

While James Bond made the DB5 the most famous car in the world, the connoisseur's choice for the famous marque would actually be a DB4 Series 4 Vantage; one such as this. Astute Aston Martin observers will know what was used on screen for the Bond films wasn't actually a DB5 at all. It was a very late production DB4 Series 4 that served as a development prototype DB5, DP/216/1. Equally those who have driven a DB5 will know for all the refinement and luxury the model introduced, a certain level of sportiness behind the wheel was lost. If only you could combine the looks of a DB5 with the behind the wheel experience of a DB4. Enter the DB4 Series 4 Vantage.

Just 45 of this variant were built; 29 in RHD and 16 in LHD. This is a model that has always been highly prized by Aston Martin enthusiasts and classic car connoisseurs as it combines the appearance of a DB5 with 'closed' headlights whilst retaining the shorter length of the DB4, along with the DB4GT style instrumentation and additional power of the Vantage specification engine. The DB4 Series 5 saw the introduction of a longer body for the benefit of passenger comfort, but to the detriment of weight and styling. The DB5 would continue this trend with an additional 113kg of weight added further harming performance.

After spending 45 years off the road and rediscovered in 2010 and 986/R was sold by its original owner in 2010 as a restoration project. Then submitted in 2017 to Aston Martin Works at Newport Pagnell, the car emerged completed and fully restored in 2020. No aspect of the car was left untouched in their pursuit of originality and excellence, as evidenced by the highly detailed pictorial and well chronicled restoration books, accompanying the car. A manufacturer's 'Assured Provenance' certificate and reference book, issued on completion of the restoration is included in the sale.

Supplied complete with original build data records, owner's manual, period correct vehicle jack, tool roll and copper mallet, this superb example of the fabled Series 4 Vantage has covered less than 50 since the restoration's completion.