It was only natural that, following the sporting success of the Ulster and the Le Mans, Aston Martin would look to broaden its customer base into the niche for the “gentleman’s express.” However, it would not do to stray too far from the company’s competition roots and glory. With the 1936 introduction of the 15/98 Short-Chassis, Aston Martin achieved a perfect harmony.

Sportier than the long-chassis tourers, but not an outright sports car, the 15/98 is, quite simply, the epitome of a 1930s roadster.

Nearly a decade before Aston Martin would relocate to the famous factory at Newport Pagnell, chassis number C8/821/SO was produced. Rolling off the line in March of 1938, the 15/98 was recorded as an Open Sports in green, with green leather upholstery. Non-standard equipment included fitting an oil pipe to the rocker gear.

First sold to Mr. Harding-Caris, the vehicle passed to two more owners before 1940. Maintenance records from the factory note a series of small services before a longer stay at the Works for “Accidental Repairs” to the cost of £150, which were completed early in 1940.

Eventually making its way to the U.S., chassis no. C8/821/SO is known to the North American Aston Martin Owners Club and has won its share of concours, and was even awarded Best Open Car Pre-WWII at the 2011 Greenwich Concours. At the time of its restoration several years ago by the Paterek Brothers in New Jersey, the engine block was found to be cracked. Currently a replacement block and cylinder head are in place, although the original was repaired and accompanies the car, along with a small collection of restoration and historical documentation.

Still capable of a generous 98 mph, the Aston Martin 15/98 has recently been detailed and serviced in preparation for auction. A beautiful addition to any collection of significant pre-war models, chassis number C8/821/SO is ready for it’s new home.