This 1967 Aston Martin DB 6 Mark 1, was originally built to a standard engine specification with automatic transmission. The current owner, purchased the vehicle in 1987 and since then has nearly completed a full nut and bolt restoration.
A photographic record is available to show the extent of the restoration, which included a full body off strip down, and to complete refurbishment of the chassis wheel arches, bulkhead suspension mounting points, sills and cross members, the chassis was then shot blasted and powder coated to provide long term protection to the new steelwork.
The bodywork was completely replaced, including the whole front section, doors, rear wings and boot lid. The doors were completely rebuilt, including new steel frames and new aluminium outer skin, the window mechanisms have been replaced with later Virage electric motors and mechanism.
The whole vehicle, then undertook a complete bare metal re spray back to its original colour, which was "Caribbean pearl." The chassis and bodywork was completed by Panelrama of Northampton.
During the rest of the rebuilt the present owner, adopted the policy of refurbishing existing parts that were in sound condition, rather than simply replacing with new. The chrome work on the vehicle, whilst not perfect is all original. The vehicle was completely rewired, using new wiring harnesses from the factory, the brakes were completely refurbished and the calipers electroplated for protection. In addition all new brake lines and stainless steel braided aeroquipe flexible hoses were fitted. Silicone brake and clutch fluid was used throughout the hydraulic systems. Where appropriate, many original fastenings were replaced with stainless steel components and electrically, the vehicle was converted to negative earth.
The standard engine and automatic transmission were upgraded, with a Vantage engine and five-speed manual gearbox from a later model car. This engine and gearbox is to the exact specification, as would have been used in a Vantage version originally. The engine shows excellent oil pressure and performance. Mechanically, the transmission was completely refurbished as well as the suspension using new bushes, new Koni adjustable shock absorbers at the front, and at the rear new road springs, refurbished select-a-ride, shock absorbers, and then an additional bolt on modification, which was the addition of small telescopic shock absorbers within the rear coil springs. This upgrade is to the personal taste of the present owner, and provides a much firmer ride in the vehicle, but is easily removed. A new set of wire wheels have been fitted to the car within the last six months.
The exhaust system is stainless steel throughout, but does not utilise the middle silencer boxes, but reflects the earlier DB 5 system, using only rear silences.
Additional mechanical aspects of the rebuild include the use of electronic ignition, electric cooling fans and Fiamm fuel pumps. In addition, the vehicle now breathes through a new set of three twin choke Webber carburettors and Pipercross foam filters.
The interior of the vehicle has been fully refurbished, including a new headlining, the use of Connolly hide for the dashboard top and rear parcel shelf as well as the seats being reupholstered in Connolly leather in a medium blue with grey piping. The driver's seat has an additional air cushion in the lumbar area, which can be inflated to provide additional back support (specified by the present owner), carpeting and sound insulation were replaced. In contrast, grey carpet and blue piping have been used on the floors. A new set of seat belts were commissioned by the present owner in a matching blue material and provide three point full harness belts for the front seats and two lap straps of the rear seats. The front seat belts have two different anchor points, providing greater access and comfort for the rear passengers. All glassware in the vehicle is original.
The present owner has restored and enjoyed this car over the last 20 years and has been a full and active member of the Owners Club, accumulating many items of memorabilia along the way. Having recently relocated, the present owner no longer has the space to complete the finer details of this restoration, and sadly, has decided to part with his cherished DB 6. The present owner is conscious that this vehicle has not been restored to provide a concourse example of this mark. His intention was always to provide a reliable and enjoyable car that could be driven any time of the year, and in any weather conditions. A new owner may wish to change some of the detailed alterations made by the present owner to suit their own personal taste, but in completing the restoration of this car will be assured that they are purchasing a vehicle which has had an enormous amount of money spent on it and the work undertaken on the chassis, bodywork, upholstery and mechanicals has been to the very highest standard.
The personalised registration is not being sold with the vehicle with a new date related registration has been issued by DVLC.