To address aerodynamic shortcomings of Carrozzeria Touring’s fastback design on the DB4 and DB5, Aston Martin decided to pursue their own development for their successor, the DB6. Intent on keeping the signature body lines, Aston Martin engineers nevertheless needed to address customer complaints of the DB5’s instability at high speeds and in crosswinds. Wind-tunnel testing showed the car’s elegant fastback design created an aerodynamic effect that reduced rear-wheel traction. To rectify this, designers and engineers made various improvements, most notable being the signature “Kamm tail.” A significant advancement in aerodynamic science, the slight upward curve in the tail enhanced stability at high speeds.

Both the DB4 and DB5 had been fitted with occasional rear seating, which was quite cramped for adults. To remedy this, an extra 3.75 inches was added to the DB6’s wheelbase to increase legroom while the roof was also raised for more headroom. The rear axle was relocated slightly, and the suspension shortened, not only allowing for more elbow room, but also further improving stability.

Though the DB6 was considered by some to be less attractive than the outgoing DB5, due to its swollen proportions, it was undoubtedly the better driver. With a top speed of 150 mph and ample room for four adult passengers, the DB6 is still thought of as one of the world’s best grand tourers.

The DB6 presented here is a unique right-hand drive, “Home Market” example. Originally finished in Capri Blue over dark blue leather, this car was dispatched to dealer H.W. Motors Limited, Walton upon Thames on 9 June 1966 and sold to its first owner, Allan Walter Banks, in 1967. A British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate shows the car was factory equipped with chrome wire wheels with three-ear, center-lock wheel nuts, a heated rear window, power radio antennae, Avon Turbospeed GT tires, triple SU HD8 carburetors, and an unusual Borg-Warner automatic transmission.

Mr. Banks enjoyed his DB6 before selling it to a Mr. Collings of Cardiff, Wales in the late 1960s or early 1970s. Collings then would sell the Aston in 1974 to John Hanson of Manistee, Michigan, who imported it to the United States. Hanson owned the car for over three decades before selling it to Jim Chapman of Syracuse, New York in 2007. After nearly a decade of ownership, Mr. Chapman commissioned a full restoration by marque experts Steel Wings, Riter Restorations, and Aston Martin of New England at a cost that is said to have reached well into the six figures. The car was taken down to bare metal and refinished in striking Ice Blue, while the interior was refurbished in complementary Midnight Blue leather. During the restoration, the car was updated to a five-speed manual transmission for added reliability and driving enjoyment. The original transmission is included, with shipping to the purchaser to be arranged. Also accompany the sale are volumes of restoration invoices. Following its expert and comprehensive refurbishment, the car won first in class at the 2016 Central New York European Car Show.

Widely considered among the best value of all David Brown-era Aston Martins, this refurbished DB6 with numbers-matching engine is ideally suited for those seeking one of the most beautiful and best-driving sports cars of its era that is sure to impress, whether from behind the wheel or on display at events.