Following a decades-long hiatus, Aston Martin rekindled its partnership with Italian coachbuilder Zagato in the early 2000s as then-owner Ford Motor Company sought to reinvigorate interest in the British brand and boost sales. Using the already stunning DB7 as a starting point, Zagato had quite the challenge creating an even more alluring limited-production grand tourer. The Italian design house did not disappoint with the resulting DB7 Zagato coupe and DB AR1 roadster now widely considered two of the most attractive Aston Martins ever made.

Although the coupes were only available in Asian and European markets, the roadster was produced specifically for the American market, hence the “AR1” designation, signifying “American Roadster 1.” First shown at the 2003 Los Angeles Auto Show, the DB AR1 remained true to the design of its coupe sibling, albeit in an exciting fully open format, with twin-cowls behind the front seats echoing the “double bubble” roof of the coupe.

Presented in unique Bowland Black over Soft White leather, the rare example presented here is number 52 of 99 produced. A commemorative plaque displaying its production number is built into the rocker-panel sills. Originally owned by Cal Turner, heir to the Dollar General business and owner of Turner Motorsports, the AR1 was purchased by its current owner in 2012 and indicated only 5,844 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloguing.

Standard luxurious appointments include electronically controlled sport seats, Becker AM/FM stereo system with six-disc CD changer, and air-conditioning. The interior is additionally furnished with an aluminum shifter, aluminum dash switches, and black wood trim.

Well cared for, an invoice from 2021 confirms the power steering and air conditioning were repaired at that time. In 2022, a set of four new tires were mounted. The Aston Martin will be accompanied by an umbrella, owner’s manual, tonneau cover, and a book unique to the car detailing the production process with samples.

A truly rare find melding the best British pedigree with stunning Italian design, this DB AR1 Zagato presents an exciting opportunity for Aston Martin enthusiasts to own among the most desirable models of the era.