Aston Martin DB 5 classic cars for sale

History of the Aston Martin DB 5

The Aston Martin DB 5 made its debut in 1963 as the successor to the DB 4. Production took place at the Newport Pagnell facility, and the car quickly rose to prominence for its technical refinements and distinctive styling. Under the direction of Sir David Brown, the 'DB' namesake paid homage to the man who revitalised Aston Martin after 1947. Italian design house Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera crafted the aluminium body, offering a refined and elegant profile. The DB 5 became ingrained in automotive culture, not least due to its appearances in the James Bond film series, beginning with 'Goldfinger.' Its combination of luxury and performance reflected the spirit of the 'swinging sixties.'

Model History

Replacing the DB 4, the DB 5 marked several key technical advances, most notably an all-aluminium 4.0-litre engine and a new five-speed ZF gearbox. The core line-up included the two-door coupé, the two-door convertible (with only 123 produced, including just 19 left-hand drive models), and the highly limited 'Shooting Brake' estate, with just 12 crafted by Harold Radford. In 1965, production of the DB 5 ceased as the model was succeeded by the DB 6. Matching numbers examples remain particularly desirable among collectors. Original handbooks, factory options such as different axle ratios or chromed wheels, and rare colours add to the model's appeal.

Highlights and Unique Features

Every Aston Martin DB 5 was crafted with attention to detail. The car featured an aluminium body on a steel chassis, powered by a 4.0-litre inline-six engine with three SU carburettors, rated at 286 PS (210 kW). Right-hand drive versions accounted for around 670 of the fewer than 900 cars built. Factory options included wire wheels, heated rear glass, and varying axle ratios. Exquisitely finished interiors boasted Connolly leather in multiple colours and Wilton carpets. The classic single seat configuration, comprehensive instrumentation, and extensive chrome detailing were characteristic. Distinct paint finishes produced at the factory included Dubonnet Rosso, Sierra Blue and Goodwood Green. Most extant cars feature "matching numbers."

Technical Data

Special Editions and Variants

The DB 5 platform gave rise to several rare editions: only 123 convertibles were made, of which just 19 were left-hand drive. The Vantage model, with uprated engine to 234 kW (318 PS) via triple Weber carburettors, was limited to 65 coupés. The Shooting Brake estate conversion, built by Radford, numbered only 12. Each of these variants is celebrated for its rarity and distinctive engineering.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The core of the DB 5 is its 4.0-litre inline-six, producing 286 PS (210 kW) for the standard model, and 318 PS (234 kW) in the Vantage. The ZF five-speed gearbox marked an important evolution for high-speed touring. Acceleration from 0-60 mph stands at approximately 8 seconds, and a top speed of 230–240 km/h (145–150 mph) is achievable depending on axle ratio. Handling is defined by its rear-wheel-drive layout, robust chassis and twin fuel tanks aiding weight distribution. The convertible’s chassis required extra reinforcement. The Shooting Brake, intended for practical use, was noted for critical rear-axle behaviour when loaded. - DB 5 coupé: classic 2+2 grand tourer configuration, the core production variant.

• DB 5 Vantage: only 65 built, notable for its higher power and triple Weber carburettors.
• DB 5 Convertible: highly exclusive, only 123 built, 19 of which are LHD.
• DB 5 Shooting Brake: rarest, only 12, with unique bodywork and estate functionality.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera’s design integrates flowing lines with luxurious materials: Connolly hides for upholstery, Wilton wool carpets, and generous chrome trim throughout. The factory offered several special paint and interior combinations, including Dubonnet Rosso, Sierra Blue and Goodwood Green exteriors, with black or beige leather. Features such as reclining seats, electric windows, heated rear screen and original Smiths gauges were standard. Chrome-plated bumpers, window frames, and bespoke wire wheels completed the look. Factory-fitted extras included axle ratio options and chromed road wheels.

Other Relevant Features

Many DB 5 examples were delivered with original owner’s manuals and have retained complete documentation. 'Matching numbers' are highly regarded, especially for collectors. The extensive list of optional equipment included heated rear screens, chromed wheels, and alternative axle ratios. Original examples often display a strong provenance tracing back to their initial factory specification.

Summary

The Aston Martin DB 5, produced from 1963 to 1965, stands as a rare classic with fewer than 900 units built, the majority supplied as right-hand drive. Each car reflects the peak of 1960s British luxury engineering, combining a powerful 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine, refined interiors with Connolly leather, and elegant Italian-influenced bodywork. The DB 5’s association with James Bond and extremely limited variants—including Vantage, Convertible and Shooting Brake—further increase its desirability among enthusiasts.