1951 | Aston Martin DB 2

The DB2 was the first Aston Martin produced after David Brown purchased both Aston Martin and Lagonda companies in 1947 – creating Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. The Lagonda 2.6 litre, dual overhead cam, straight-six engine was the principle gain from one half of this merger, which Brown used to replace the smaller, less powerful engine used in the earlier Aston Martin 2-Litre Sports in a shortened version of its tube-frame chassis, with a freshly designed coupé body, to create the DB2.

The DB2 Coupé was first shown at the New York Auto Show in April 1950 and a little later in the same year, a Drophead Coupé variant was introduced. Both continued in production until April 1953, by which time it is believed over 400 had been made, of which just 102 were drophead coupés. The Vantage upgrade option made available by Aston Martin used the VB6B engine with larger HV6 SU carburettors, revised inlet camshaft and higher compression ratio, for a claimed output of 125 hp. It is understood that less than 250 cars were produced with the more powerful Vantage engine.

At launch, the car’s performance potential caught the attention of visitors to the show and 100 cars were ordered. The Motor magazine tested a standard coupé in 1950 and recorded a top speed of 116 mph and 0-60 mph acceleration time of 11.2 seconds.

This particular DB2 Vantage Drophead was first supplied in the USA to a New York purchaser in August 1952. Perhaps unusually, it is right hand drive and the manufacturer’s note identifies the original colour of Jubilee Blue with Beige trim. There is no other significant documented history prior to its purchase and repatriation back to the UK in 2016, whereupon it underwent a complete mechanical and body restoration at great expense, incorporating many upgrades.

The restoration works included a full engine rebuild together with several useful upgrades, amongst which are: 5-speed gearbox conversion – alternator conversion – aluminium radiator with electric fan – aluminium fuel tank with electric fuel pump – high-flow oil pump and filter conversion – power steering and reduced-size steering wheel. Many other new components have been incorporated – e.g. new shock absorbers, front and rear – and the car drives beautifully and easily, with a modern feel, supple suspension and exhilarating exhaust note when pushed a little.

The body and chassis were separated as part of the restoration and rebuild process, both were repaired as required and the body refinished in the original colour of Jubilee Blue. New wire wheels have been fitted and all brightwork re-chromed or polished as required. The car has a new dark blue Mohair hood (with two small rear windows) and fully refurbished soft top frame. Altogether, the car is stunning to look at.

The interior has been fully refreshed with a new blue leather interior; dark blue carpets; original, refurbished seats and renovated wooden dash panel and instruments. It is in immaculate condition, looks elegant and is a comfortable place to occupy.

This is a very desirable, very attractive and relatively rare Aston Martin model in near-concours condition, beautifully restored and with many useful upgrades to improve the driving experience. It represents a unique opportunity to acquire a famous marque, classic 50’s British sportscar in an outstanding condition.

The car is currently UK registered and we can assist / advise with overseas shipping and importation processes if required.