Many enthusiasts consider the DB6 to be the best of the David Brown-era Astons, as it offers the most sublime combination of gentlemanly luxury, sophisticated street manners, and straight-line performance.

As had become customary for Aston Martin, the Vantage engine was available as an option to those who desired a more powerful driving experience. Having evolved from the DB4 Special Series engine first seen in 1961, Vantage engines were fitted with three Weber carburetors, high-compression heads, and more aggressive camshafts. In the uprated Vantage state of tune, the Tadek Marek-designed and race-proven inline-six-cylinder produced 325 horsepower, while Touring of Milan’s celebrated coachwork design was stretched two inches to accommodate a wheelbase 3.75 inches longer than its predecessor—offering a more refined ride with room in the back for actual adult passengers. The addition of its advanced and modern Kamm-style tail crowned the DB6’s ravishing presence.

The DB6 Vantage on offer here is an exceptional sampling both as a genuine, left-hand-drive North American Export example, and for importantly retaining its numbers-matching engine. As documented by copies of both its build sheet and British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, chassis 2478 was completed 26 January 1966 finished in Platinum over Black Connolly leather trim and dispatched for sale in the United States the next day via British Motor Cars Distributor, USA. An impressive option list includes a Vantage engine, Normalair air conditioning system, chrome wheels with three-ear knockoff wheel nuts, heated rear windshield, Fiamm horns, Britax lap and diagonal safety belts, power antenna, and a 3:73:1 limited-slip differential.

A sought-after David Brown-era Aston Martin, this matching-number-engine DB6 Vantage is a wonderful example of the British “Gentleman’s Express.”