Looking to reinvigorate sales and interest in the Aston Martin brand, Ford teamed up with the legendary Italian coachbuilder Zagato in 2002 to create a limited-production grand touring car in the spirit of the DB4 GT Zagato of the 1960s and the V8 Vantage Zagato of the 1980s. In designing a car more alluring than the current model DB7, a car already considered to be one of the most attractive of its era, Zagato certainly had their work cut out for them. However, the Italian design house did not disappoint, and the resulting cars, the DB7 Zagato and DB AR1, are considered by many to be two of the most attractive Aston Martins ever produced. Although the DB7 Zagato coupes were only available in the European and Asian markets, the roadster was produced especially for the American market, hence the “AR1” designation.

First shown at the 2003 Los Angeles Auto Show, the DB AR1 was an exciting, fully open roadster that remained largely similar to its closed sibling. It was instantly regarded as one of the best designs that either Aston Martin or Zagato had ever produced. It offered time-honored Zagato design cues with a modern flair combined with exceptional performance. It quickly became one of the most desirable Aston Martins of modern times.

The AR1 accelerates from 0–60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and offers a top speed of 186 mph, figures only slightly bettered by the legendary Vanquish. It is powered by the more powerful “GT” version of the 6.0-liter Vanquish V12 with 435 bhp on tap. The active sports exhaust system with rear muffler bypass valves provides the DB AR1 with a very distinctive and thoroughly exciting exhaust note befitting such an automobile. The DB AR1 is also fitted with the DB7 GT quick-shift gear lever and special multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels with low-profile tires for excellent road-holding performance. Braking is supplied by Brembo discs and a V12 Vanquish brake booster unit for a firmer and more consistent pedal feel.

This example is finished in a stunning Tungsten Silver over an All-Soft White leather interior that is adorned with diamond-pleated front and rear seating and envelops the driver and passengers in a world of comfort. The five-spoke alloy wheels are offset with tasteful red-painted brake calipers. Other options include embroidered over mats, a satellite navigation system, power folding mirrors, and aluminum switches, including the gearshift knob. Also included is a serial-numbered car cover, a set of matching umbrellas, as well as the original owner’s manual, window sticker, and spare key fob.

The DB AR1 remains as popular and iconic today as when it was first built, and opportunities to acquire one are few and far between. This example, in excellent colors and with less than 100 original miles, would make a superb addition to any connoisseur’s stable.