Lot details
Registration No: 520 UYF
Chassis No: AM300/3/1693
Mot Expiry: Exempt

To most eyes, the DB MKIII was the best looking of the DB2 line - it also represented the final development of the Claude Hill chassis first seen on the Atom prototype. The most obvious change from the DB2/4 MKII was the DB3S style radiator grille, the evocative shape of which was echoed inside the car by the equally new instrument binnacle. During its brief production run of two years, the DB MKIII became the first Aston Martin to be equipped with disc brakes, while a hydraulically-operated clutch and optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive were other welcome developments. Suitably reworked by the company's Polish engine wizard Tadek Marek, the engine in standard form (DBA) was equipped with twin SU carburettors and produced 162bhp. There were other options, however, and some 10 cars were reputedly sold with the DBB variant that boasted triple twin-choke Weber carburettors, performance camshafts, high compression pistons and a dual exhaust system, and delivered an impressive 195bhp. There were three body options, namely Two-Door Saloon, Fixed Coupe and Drophead Coupe, which between them accounted for a production total of 551 cars. The model also found fame as the transport of choice for the world's most famous secret agent in Goldeneye. Yes, it was a DB5 Bond drove in the film, but a DB MKIII in the book on which it was based, though it was incorrectly referred to as a 'DBIII'.
According to a copy of the chassis records, the sale car was first registered to Hardman's Ltd of Bolton, Lancashire and designated the number 'WUK 333'. It was finished in 'Peony' and trimmed in Connolly hide VM8500. It came with the aforementioned Girling disc brakes at the front and Alfin drums on the rear, had Armstrong dampers and rode on Avon Turbospeed tyres. Maintenance records for the first two and half years show attention to the trailing links and replacement of the brake booster, overdrive unit and cylinder head.
The most recent keeper purchased the Aston (nowadays wearing the registration '520 UYF') in 2000, since when it has been completely restored for fast road use and participation in AMOC club events, and in recent years has been victorious in the club's historic championship. Last year it was campaigned in the Fordwater Trophy at the prestigious Goodwood Revival meeting and achieved a class win in the AMOC autumn concours event at Broughton Castle - as a good a clue as any to the extremely impressive condition of this car. Its Saloon body is resplendent in Tourmaline Blue and the interior finished in quality Black hide and Black Wilton carpet. It is equipped with the desirable overdrive gearbox, while the engine has been built to above DBB specification by Chris Adams of Four Ashes Garage, and features a balanced steel crankshaft, Carrillo connecting rods, and aluminium cylinder head fed by a trio of Weber carburettors. Although set up for club racing, it is understood to be totally tractable on the road and therefore ideal for classic rallies and continental tours. A notably fine example of a most sought after model.

PLEASE NOTE: The chassis number for this vehicle is AM300/3/1693 and not as stated in the catalogue.