The grand debut of the DB6 took place at the London Motor Show of 1965. Based on its successful older sibling – the DB5 – the new model offered significantly more space in the cabin courtesy of a longer wheelbase and heightened roofline. Profile improvements included split bumpers and a Kammback rear end which reduced drag and offered noticeably increased stability at higher speeds. The Vantage was released in 1966 with the 3,995-cc straight-six engine, three Weber carburetors, and a higher compression cylinder head. The resultant 325 hp and 295 lbs. of torque were much appreciated by the Aston Martin community, and the automobile was highly acclaimed internationally.

This magnificent DB6 Vantage is ultimately rare and absolutely stunning in the iconic Gunmetal Grey garb. It is one of eight DB6 Vantage left-hand-drive cars originally equipped with an automatic transmission and specifically built for the U.S. market. According to the BMIHT Certificate, chassis 2645 was completed on 1 April 1966 and delivered Stateside on 28 July 1967. The BMIHT lists many exclusive options fitted by the factory, including Normalaire air conditioning, power antenna, fog lights, heated rear screen, black detachable Aston Martin safety belts, and 15-in. wire wheels with Avon Radial tires with three-eared wheel hub knock offs.

This excellent DB6 was the beneficiary of an extensive restoration by British marque specialists in the UK during which it received several upgrades. The suspension was upgraded with a Harvey Bailey system both front and rear, and a high torque starter, upgraded alternator, and alloy high efficiency coolant radiator were expertly installed. Most notably, the original 4.0-liter engine was enlarged to 4.2-liters, adding power without jeopardizing the authenticity of a matching-numbers engine. This well-prepared DB6 has only around 100 miles on the restoration.

Originally finished in Fiesta Red, this gorgeous Vantage now sports stylish Metallic Gunmetal Grey over its original Dark Blue interior. The factory Wilton wool carpets are in good condition, and the Dark Blue Connolly leather (VM3282) is supple with a charming patina that gives credence to the 48,000 miles on the odometer. The Vantage is fitted with dual fuel tanks, with fillers on either side. Thorough inspection reveals that the boot and all rubber seals are in good order, and the glass remains in excellent condition, while all switches and instruments are functional. This car’s provenance, maintenance, and history are carefully documented and included in the extensive portfolio, along with a copy of its original Aston Martin Lagonda factory build sheet. Thanks to recent attention by Steel Wings of Ivyland, Pennsylvania, this lovely DB6 is fully serviced and eager to perform, including the adoption of a Tremec five-speed manual transmission in place of the standard three-speed automatic.

In 1966, when Aston Martin completed this DB6, it was already rare as one of eight U.S.-bound special-optioned automatic LHD examples. Today, with its matching-numbers engine and in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition, it is not only rare, but also highly collectable and desirable.