The final iteration of the DB6, the Mk2 - particularly in its rare Vantage performance specification - was its most powerful and refined while serving as the final expression of the legendary DB4/5/6 line. Subtle aesthetic updates such as flared wheel arches to accommodate wider wheels and a more luxurious interior complement the Vantage specification engine which features triple Weber carburetion, higher compression and more, producing an impressive factory-rated 325bhp.

Delivered new to Mr. P.C.E Harper of Stevenage, the accompanying build sheet shows that this DB6 Mk2 Vantage was delivered to him in August of 1970. Further notes indicate the car was used frequently by Harper, with its 10,000 miles service carried out in July of 1971 at 11,552 miles. Remaining in the U.K. until the early 2000s, the car was converted to left hand drive by Post Vintage Engineers Limited in West Yorkshire just prior to being imported to Canada. Once it arrived in Canada, the car was restored by Howe Motor Works of Burlington, Ontario. Later, the car’s engine was rebuilt to 4.2-liter capacity, with this work also conducted by Howe Motor Works.

Sold in 2014 by RM Sotheby’s and imported to the United States, the current owner acquired the car in 2018, moving it west to southern California, where it resides today. Deciding to have the car fully restored, the Mk2 was sent to Kevin Kay Restorations in Redding, California in the spring of 2021. Highly regarded Aston Martin experts, Kevn Kay Restorations is one of the premier marque specialists in the United States renowned for restoring David Brown-era Aston Martins to international concours level.

No expense was spared during the comprehensive overhaul. Upon arrival at KKR, the Mk2 was inspected, stripped down to bare metal once the drivetrain was removed from the chassis. The engine was fully rebuilt and the existing manual gearbox was ultimately replaced with a Tremec T5 five-speed unit, a common upgrade for these cars and their predecessors. The suspension was rebuilt at all four corners while five wheels (including the spare) were fitted with new Dunlop Sport Classic tires. A new steering rack was installed along with a fresh stainless steel exhaust system. The interior was disassembled and retrimmed in tan leather, beautifully complementing the paintwork in charismatic California Sage. In total, all of the work carried out on the car by KKR totaled to over $580,000. Completed in the fall of 2023 by the current owner, having been shown just once at the Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance in 2023 where it was awarded with second in class honors.

Celebrated by Aston Martin enthusiasts as the rarest and most desirable iteration of the DB6, the Mk 2 Vantage offers wonderful performance alongside a splendid level of comfort and practicality. A fabulous road trip companion perfectly capable of long-distance touring, a well-sorted DB6 represents a wonderful alternative to a Ferrari 330 or 365 GTC exuding British charm as only an Aston Martin can. Following its fabulous restoration, this example wants for nothing and is ready to be shown and enjoyed.