325 bhp, 3,995 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine, triple twin-choke Weber carburetors, ZF five-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bar, live rear axle with Watt’s linkage, radius rods and coil springs, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 101.75"

- A factory Vantage-specification, LHD, California-based car from new

- Well equipped with factory options including A/C, Bosch radio and more

- Recent engine rebuild to 4.2L spec by marque specialists Aston Engineering in the UK

Debuting in 1959, the all-new Aston Martin DB4 benefited from a new Tadek Marek-designed 3.7-liter DOHC alloy six-cylinder engine featuring efficient hemispherical combustion chambers and robust bottom-end construction with seven main bearings. Variations of this torquey and versatile power unit, later in 4.0-liter form, powered the DB4, DB5, DB6 and early DBS-model Aston Martins over the next 13 years. Of this distinguished lineage, the DB6 is increasingly appreciated by collectors and marque enthusiasts today as the most refined and perhaps the most usable expression of David Brown’s concept of the finest gentleman’s grand-touring machine.

The DB6 continued the attractive covered-headlamp frontal treatment of the iconic DB5, while the rear featured a distinctive and aerodynamically efficient Kamm-tail design with an integral spoiler, which served to reduce rear-end lift. Both the front and rear were further updated with an elegant ‘quarter bumper’ treatment that also typifies the DB6 model range. The chassis was extended to more usefully accommodate the small rear seats, headroom was increased, and the body panels were, as always, of hand-formed aluminum construction.

The roomier DB6 interior coddled its occupants in the finest Connolly leather hides and Wilton wool carpeting, while the car almost effortlessly propelled its driver and occupants over great distances at great velocities. Even more exhilarating performance levels were available with the desirable Vantage-specification engine, with its higher-compression cylinder head, triple Weber carburetors and impressive 325-bhp power output. Although road-test results varied somewhat in period, a Vantage-powered DB6 was capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds, with top speeds approaching the 150-mph barrier.

As always throughout its distinguished history, Aston Martin attracted a client list of some of the world’s wealthiest and most successful personalities. Beatles member Paul McCartney took delivery of a Goodwood Green DB6 Coupe in March 1966, soon after the model’s introduction at the London Motor Show. In all, only 1,321 DB6 Coupes were produced between the model’s introduction in late 1965 and 1970.

As supported by a copy of its original Aston Martin build sheet, this original top-specification, left-hand drive 1966 DB6 Vantage Coupe, chassis DB6/2653/L, was delivered new to California. It has remained there much, if not all, of its life, contributing to its rust-free chassis. The first owner is recorded as being William D. Wolseley of Santa Barbara, and its guarantee was issued on June 22, 1966. In addition to the highly desirable Vantage-spec engine with triple Weber carburetors and a ZF five-speed manual gearbox, the DB6 was also equipped with a comprehensive list of highly desirable “non-standard” factory options. They included an engine breather system, a 3.73:1 limited-slip differential, a rare Normalaire air-conditioning system, chrome wheels, Fiamm air horns with a changeover switch, a heated rear window, three-ear hub caps, Britex lap and diagonal safety belts, a Bosch Koln TR radio, a power-operated antenna and dual Marchal fog lamps.

According to a recent inspection and road test by an RM Auctions Car Specialist, the DB6 remains striking and handsome in presentation with an excellent Lavender Grey Metallic exterior paint finish and a fresh black interior in correct-type Connolly hides and Wilton wool carpeting. In 2008, the Vantage engine was rebuilt, and displacement was enlarged to 4.2 liters by noted UK marque specialists Aston Engineering. In addition, the DB6 was upgraded with a modern electronic ignition system to ensure peak performance. More recently, it has been cosmetically freshened by Brian Hoyt/Perfect Reflections, restorers of many Pebble Beach award-winning vehicles. As offered, this Aston is complete and requires nothing to be enjoyed and shown with pride. It is not only well equipped and maintained but also one of the most thrilling GT cars on the market.