435 bhp, 6.0-liter V-12 engine with four overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, six-speed manual transmission with a twin-plate racing clutch, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel Brembo disc brakes. Wheelbase: 102 in.

• Car number 18 of 99 produced

• Very low mileage

• As exciting today as in 2003

Aston Martin enjoyed significant growth as the new millennium approached, which was the direct result of the very successful DB7, produced from 1994 through 2003. To commemorate the end of DB7 production, Aston partnered with Zagato of Italy on a new project, recalling the famed DB4 GT of the 1960s, as well as the stunning Vantage and Volante Zagato of the late-1980s.

The DB AR1 Zagato Roadster was first shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2003, where it was an immediate sensation. The limited run of just 99 cars that followed was approved for production, with all units destined for sale in the United States only, resulting in the AR1, or “American Roadster,” designation. Hugely popular to this day, the car has become something of the Aston Martin equivalent of the Ferrari California Spyder, a fast two-passenger car intended for the market that loves them.

The overall appearance of the AR1 is quite breathtaking, with the all-aluminum coachwork highlighted by its sweeping lines and a pair of speedster-style fairings on the rear deck. Additional, unique features include a large radiator grille reminiscent of the DB4 GT Zagato, as well as the specially offset, multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels and aggressive low-profile Yokohama performance tires, which necessitated a pair of enlarged rear wheel arches.

This DB AR1 Zagato is a true roadster in that it carries only two passengers and has no top. Stowed in the trunk are a tonneau, seat covers, a numbered car cover, and two umbrellas. While there is no top, Zagato did develop a power top that can be retrofitted to these cars. The stunning Zagato-designed body, finished in Rolls-Royce Garnet, is just part of the story. The balance of the car is all Aston Martin, with a four-cam, 48-valve, 6.0-liter V12 engine putting out 435 horsepower. An AP twin-plate racing clutch, a six-speed manual transmission, and four-wheel Brembo disc brakes round out the performance package. The sumptuous Eclipse Red and Magnolia interior features hand-stitched, electronically controlled seats trimmed in piped Bridge of Weir leather, while entertainment is provided by a six-speaker sound system with a remote CD changer.

With only very limited miles from new, the Aston Martin was acquired by the present owner in 2010. Complete with all expected accessories, including the heated rear-view mirrors, an aluminum shifter and switches, as well as a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher, this is a striking, high-performance, limited-edition automobile in the finest Aston Martin tradition.