Me & My Car - Ron Powell

Ron Powell is resident in Abu Dhabi where he runs the Al Budoor Air Compressor Company.

A regular client of Aston Workshop he has also been kind enough to assist us during our recent visits to the UAE on marketing and promotion tours, including the end of season Formula 1 race at Yas Marina Circuit.

Ive had my lovely DB MKIII since the middle of 2009, I also have a Vanquish S and DB7 Vantage, but I have a real soft spot for Chassis Number AM300/3/1815.

The car was first registered in April 1959 and is a 3 Ltr. Twin Cam with Twin SU Carbs that was originally supplied with a 4-speed gearbox (although this has since been replaced with an overdrive box).

Like most classic Astons there were 3 or 4 owners in the early years before she became the pride & joy of John Herring in January 1968. John is an AMOC member and clearly cherished the car during his time with her.

I first laid eyes on her in Johns garage in Weybridge on 16th June 2009, it took no time at all to reach the decision to buy, love at first sight I guess.

Initial checks were done by Works Service in Newport Pagnell and the recommended work was undertaken over next 3 months or so. It was a real treat to get behind the wheel for the first time and even though it was a cold grey October morning, it was well worth the wait, the overdrive making a big difference in terms of drivability.

At the end of October I took the car up to Aston Workshop for the first time, and I have to say I was immediately struck by the friendly and attentive approach of everyone there. They also have the most amazing facilities and expertise and I decide there and then that I would like them to take care of my car from now on. They quickly set about sorting the last few remaining niggles such as oil leaks, battery cut off, number plate lights etc. They also repositioned the wing mirrors for me and painted the front wings and rear body. Everything was done to an exceptional standard.

Straight after this work was done we were off for a 695 mile round trip with barely a hiccough, just a slight mis-fire and speedo needle problem.

Back to Aston Workshop were the mis-fire was diagnosed as a leaking head gasket which required a major overhaul of the cylinder head. I was so impressed with the way Aston Workshop carried out the necessary work that I asked them to give the car a good check over and sort any remaining issues.

Many adventures have ensued in the following year with a trip to Le Mans and another to the Goodwood Revival, the car behaving impeccably the whole time, an absolute joy!

My car is not fully restored, and although a restoration sounds tempting at times (and Im not ruling it out), I just love her the way she is, to me shes perfect.

Its great in these days of uniform dealerships and faceless technicians to find a company such as this. I believe we have a strong relationship now and one that I hope will continue for many years to come. Its a great feeling knowing that I have this fantastic level of back-up from such a great bunch of guys.