178 bhp (SAE), 2,922 cc DBA DOHC inline six-cylinder engine, twin SU carburettors and twin exhausts, four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive, independent front suspension with coil springs, trailing arms and anti-roll bar, live Salisbury rear axle with coil springs, trailing links and Panhard rod, and hydraulic front disc, rear “Alfin” drum brakes. Wheelbase: 99"

- Owned new by The Right Honourable Sir Lawrence, later Lord Kadoorie of Hong Kong

- Documented with over 26 years of invoices and receipts

- Comprehensively restored by marque experts; freshly completed in 2011

- Complete with all books, original tool kit, jack and hammer

Many enthusiasts view the DB Mark III as the last “true” Aston Martin and appreciate it as the ultimate development of the groundbreaking DB2 which saw the Company develop from a small specialist manufacturer to a marque of world renown. The series provided the basis for Aston’s brilliant racing successes culminating in the 1959 World Sports Car Championship. Though they have always been highly valued, demand for the DB Mark III has risen significantly in recent years, supported by its technical sophistication, excellent performance and eligibility for nearly all the greatest vintage motoring events, including the Tour Auto and Goodwood Revival.

Finished in Peony Red with Ivory hides, this highly desirable later-production DB Mark IIIB from 1958, AM300/3/1537, features cathedral-style tail lamps and the impressive factory specification of front disc brakes, dual exhaust (adding 16 hp) and overdrive. Known history begins with original owner the Right Honourable Sir Lawrence, later Lord Kadoorie of Hong Kong, under whom it was registered “XX 7777.” In September 1961, upon the acquisition of the DB4GT that remains with the Kadoorie family today, AM300/3/1537 was sold to Mr. David Holden-White, also of Hong Kong, who returned to the UK with the car in 1962. Mr. Mathew Dancey purchased the car during the early 1980s and used it for daily driving until 2000, when a comprehensive restoration commenced using some of the best Feltham-era marque specialists, reaching completion in 2011.

This exhaustive restoration included panel work by Adrian Breeze, formerly of Bodylines, Ltd., unquestionably among the most respected restorers of Aston Martin aluminium bodywork in England. The painstaking body refurbishment included the removal of the windows from the car, enabling all of the brightwork to be restored, a particularly time-consuming and often-overlooked step. A complete set of new body trim and rubber seals were used in rebuilding the car, almost exclusively supplied by Aston Service Dorset, the AML-authorised supplier for the Feltham cars. New felt headlining was fitted throughout, together with a full set of bound carpets made by an Aston Martin trimmer. The original leather, remaining in remarkably good condition, simply required a light re-colouring by one of the only two Connolly-authorised restorers in England.

The DBA engine was completely overhauled by Davron Engineering, including the fitting of the all-important new 'solid cheeses' to the crankshaft, plus new pistons, bearings, valves and balancing of the crankshaft assembly. In addition, Davron rebuilt the oil and water pumps, fitted new engine mounts, installed the new radiator, re-shimmed the steering box and fitted new stainless-steel exhaust silencers. Subsequently, the car was upgraded with a Kenlowe electric fan, an engine-oil cooler and stainless-steel exhaust manifolds by FelthamFast. New chrome wire wheels and spinners were fitted, along with a new set of Michelin Pilot Sport “X” tyres.

Complete with an owner’s handbook, parts manual and workshop manual, as well as a jack, hammer, grease gun and original tool kit, AM300/3/1537 is accompanied by 26 years of restoration and maintenance receipts and a new MoT certificate issued in February 2011. Believed one of the finest examples available today, AM300/3/1537 combines superb condition, documented history with long-term careful ownership and a high-level restoration with desirable specification, making it a sought-after acquisition for any serious collector or enthusiast. In fact, with its overall cosmetic and mechanical condition, it represents a great tour entry and a serious contender for AMOC ‘Pride of Ownership’ honours.