The Aston Martin DB5 epitomized the success of the company’s mission to produce a world-class GT sports coupe with the English gentleman in mind. The car was hand-built and improved upon the advanced engineering that began with its groundbreaking predecessor, the DB4. Superior materials were used in manufacture, such as aluminum-alloy body panels mounted over a skeleton of small-diameter tubing, which was patented by Touring of Milan as Superleggera construction. Its race-proven engine was also made of aluminum, including both the block and its twin-cam hemispherical cylinder head. Then, of course, the interior was upholstered in the finest Connolly leather, which was complemented by deep-pile Wilton carpets. The net result was a car of unmatched power, elegance, and luxury.

Though registered as a 1966, records show DB5/2202/L was shipped to the U.S. on 25 June 1965. Arriving in California, no owner is recorded until the car was registered with H. C. Burgraff of Newport Beach in February 1966 – his original registration accompanies the car. When the DB5 was sold to the present owners, James and Rosalie Sterling, in 1977, the vehicle had recorded approximately 65,000 miles.

In 1996, the owners began restoration; the original engine was completely rebuilt and has only been driven approximately 300 miles since then. Additionally, the carburetors were overhauled, and new exhaust manifolds and fuel tanks were fitted. The transmission and clutch were rebuilt, the oil cooler boiled out, and the fuel pump cleaned and rebuilt to ensure everything was working perfectly. The owners also repainted the DB5, replacing the original Fiesta Red with the more familiar Silver Birch – reminiscent of the famous Bond DB5. The interior was rebuilt – new foam was put in the seats before being covered with black leather, and the door panels were re-trimmed. Small details such as window seals and window wipers were replaced to ensure a comfortable drive. Unfortunately, before completing the project, James suddenly passed, and the DB5 was placed in storage until earlier this year.

In February of this year, DB5/2202/L was sent to Kevin Kay Restorations to recommission the car after being in storage for 20 years. Over 260 hours were spent bringing the DB5 back into fine working order. Detailed invoices from Kevin Kay list all items that were addressed, and these are included with the car. Among the numerous items, the carburetors were disassembled and rebuilt. A new starter was fitted, and the engine properly tuned. The clutch and brakes were both serviced, new window lifts were added, and other electrical issues sorted. The engine bay, trunk, and package shelf were all put in good order. After a full reservicing, this DB5 is on the button and ready to be driven.

With only 70,698 miles on the odometer and accompanied by copies of all available California registration slips from 1966 to 2017, invoices from the original restoration and the Kevin Kay refreshing, this DB5 represents a singular opportunity to acquire a rare example with a completely known history and recent refresh by expert craftsmen.