Fitment: DB4, similar upgrades available for: DB5, DB6, DB6 Mk2, DBS

'Vantage' has always signified the performance-focused model in Astons range, which is a tradition that continues to the current Vantage sports car. The DB4 Vantage, introduced in 1961, was the first time that the Vantage became a model in its own right, with many important differences from the standard car.

The crucial major change was the fitment of the 'Special Series' engine, denoted by a /SS prefix on the engine number, which increased the power output by 10% (it's worth noting that original power figures are somewhat untrustworthy. Our engine builds are always dynamometer tested to provide a true power figure). The increased performance was achieved by the use of an additional SU HD8 carburettor (three in total on the engine) as well a modified cylinder head with larger valves and a higher compression ratio.

Aston Workshop are able to carry out Vantage-specification upgrades to your DB4 engine. The /SS engines use a standard block, therefore we are able to reuse your original block for the sake of originality. Often, original Aston Martin straight-6 blocks show heavy corrosion once stripped, as well as unacceptable cracks towards the main bearings; if that is the case, we can either repair your original block or supply a brand new in-house developed block that is visually identical to an original but with a number of internal improvements. More details on our in-house produced blocks can be found here.

To carry out an upgrade to Vantage-spec, we will first strip, clean and inspect your current engine. Your cylinder head will then be machined to allow for the fitment of larger Vantage-spec valves, an increase in inlet and exhaust port size, as well as to achieve a perfect match to the block and an increased compression ratio. Fitment of triple SU carburettors requires some changes to the throttle linkage as well as various other changes within the engine bay. All of these modifications are carried out, before the engine is reassembled and tested on our dynamometer.

We can carry out the upgrade of your DB4 engine to Vantage (/SS) specification either by having your car here at the workshop, or on a 'crate' basis where you ship the engine, we carry out the conversion and ship it back to you. We can also carry out the other changes needed to make your DB4 a true Vantage, such as the body modifications required for faired-in headlights with chrome bezels. 

To enquire about any of our enhancements and upgrades, or to discuss a bespoke solution for your car, contact our workshop team at astonworkshop@aston.co.uk or +44 (0) 1207 233 525.