282 bhp, 3,995 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine with triple SU carburettors, five-speed ZF manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with coil springs, and power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 102 in.

• Complete, frame-up restoration in 2005

• Equipped with optional Webasto sunroof

• Regular maintenance and recent service by marque specialist Desmond Smail

• Matching numbers engine

Just two years after the introduction of the DB5, Aston Martin released its successor, the DB6, at the 1965 London Motor Show. More spacious and luxurious than its predecessor, the DB6 was no less a potent sports car in the grand touring tradition of Aston Martin. The DB6 retained the well-proven chassis design, which began with the DB4, albeit now with a 95.25 millimetre longer wheelbase and a relocated Salisbury rear axle. The longer chassis was given over almost entirely to rear seat legroom. Running gear and suspension specifications were essentially carryovers, with buyers having a choice of a ZF five-speed manual or a Borg Warner three-speed automatic transmission. A Powr-Lok limited slip differential and chrome wire wheels were provided as standard equipment. Shortly after introduction, power steering became available for the first time.

The car looked much like its forbear from the cowl forward, save for the updated ‘quarter bumper’ treatment and a unifying grille for the oil cooler. As the designers endeavoured to provide more interior space, adding to the comfort of rear seat passengers, they were also cognizant to improve the aerodynamic stability of the DB6. The windscreen was made taller so the roofline afforded increased headroom. The mission was clear according to company Chairman David Brown, who said, “In an Aston Martin one should not only be able to move fast and safely, one should also feel comfortable and have a lot of room, even in the back”.

The coupé remained a fastback, but now with a vertical ‘Kamm-style’ tail with integrated spoiler, similar to the approach used by Ferrari with the 275GTB. This strengthened the downforce at the rear by thirty per cent, as proven in wind tunnel testing, while improving the top speed over the DB5. Though overall length was up 50.80 millimetres, the DB6 weighed virtually the same as the DB5, even though Aston Martin no longer used the patented touring superleggera construction throughout. DB6 production ended in November 1970, with a total of 1,327 Mk1 coupés built.

Both classic and elegant in Aston Martin Goodwood Green, with tan hides and complementary brown carpets, this DB6 has been in the possession of its Anglophile, Aston Martin enthusiast and current owner since 1985, when he imported the car to the U.S. with recorded mileage circa 65,000. From a review of the impressive document file that accompanies the sale, he is the fourth titleholder, with the second identified as an RAF Captain, A.W. Stanley, under the original UK registration HRF 450F. The service history of the car, which can only be described as extensive and believed complete, dates from new and includes factory records through 1973, followed by Aston Martin main agent service through 1978. The DB6 was subject to a comprehensive, frame-up, photo-documented restoration completed by Classic European Restorations, of Oceanside, California, in 2005. Shortly after it was finished, the Aston was shipped back to reside in the UK, where it received occasional use while being maintained with regularity by marque specialist Desmond Smail. In fact, since its return to the UK, the meticulous owner has spent in excess of £80,000, with Smails perfecting the car as a superb and reliable driver, which currently shows approximately 83,000 miles.

The long-term owner recently acquired a short chassis Volante, the restoration of which is commanding all of his attention; therefore, this striking DB6 is offered reluctantly. As such, it represents a unique opportunity with its remarkably well-documented provenance, and it features the factory optional Webasto sunroof, as well as the correct Lucas driving and fog lamp combination mounted to the front bumper. The original owner’s handbook, a proper jack, and a tool roll also accompany this lovely car.