Lot details
Registration No: 733 UYJ
Chassis No: LML/664
Mot Expiry: May 2017

"The Aston Martin DB2/4 is a sports car with a very definite appeal. It has full saloon car comfort, coupled with performance and roadholding of a very high order" (Autocar Magazine)

Introduced at the October 1953 London Motor Show, the DB2/4 represented a new breed of longer-legged, more accommodating Aston Martin. Some seven inches longer and a little taller than its predecessor, the fitting of a smaller seventeen-gallon fuel tank (still good for circa 300 miles) plus some minor platform changes liberated enough room for two small seats to be positioned above the back axle. Visually distinguished by a one-piece windscreen and rear hatchback, the new model boasted such niceties as a telescopic steering column and adjustable backrests. Panelled in lightweight aluminium over an advanced tubular frame chassis, its independent front suspension featured a sophisticated trailing link, coil-sprung set-up tempered by an anti-roll bar, while at the rear a Panhard rod assisted radius arms in keeping the coil-sprung beam axle firmly tied down. Initially powered by a 2580cc version of the famous Willie Watson / W.O. Bentley designed DOHC straight-six engine, the adoption of a larger 83mm bore size saw capacity rise to 2922cc in mid-1954. Thanks to its 'Vantage' state of tune, the 2.6 litre unit was credited with developing some 125bhp and 144lbft of torque - outputs sufficient for a quoted 111mph top speed. Overshadowed by its racing DB3 / DB3S siblings, the model still enjoyed a successful competition career winning the team prize on the 1955 Monte Carlo Rally (interestingly, the factory also fielded a pair of DB2/4s for the Mille Miglia). Of the 565 MKIs made, just 448 are thought to have been two-door saloons.

According to its accompanying copy Aston Martin Ltd (AML) Build Sheet and Service Record, this particular MKI 2.6 litre example - chassis number LML/664 - was originally specified with optional heavy duty shock absorbers and RJ needles. Supplied new via S.M.T. to Carlaw Ltd of 97 West George Street, Glasgow, the DB2/4 had a replacement engine fitted whilst still under guarantee and indeed appears to have returned to the factory for occasional work up until January 1964. Migrating to America sometime thereafter, the 2+2-seater was discovered by its previous keeper in a Virginian barn during 2008. Dust covered and obviously immobile for many years, the Aston Martin was subsequently entrusted to Francis Warwick of the Lea Francis Co in West Palm Beach, Florida (Mr Warwick's outfit specialises in the restoration of British marques). Disassembled, the DB2/4 had its alloy bodywork repaired as necessary and its underside cleaned and undercoated. The wiring was renewed and the instruments rejuvenated. The engine was thoroughly checked over and compression tested and the gearbox serviced. A period correct exhaust system was installed and the radiator re-cored. Attention was paid to the fuel system, suspension and four-wheel drum brakes too. Re-trimmed in Olive Green leather, the interior also gained a new Beige cloth headlining and refinished wood veneer trims. The windscreen was renewed and the side window winder mechanisms overhauled. The result of all this refurbishment was apparently 'Best in Class' and 'Exceptional in Class' awards garnered at various American concours meetings.

Further enhanced since entering the current UK-based ownership, the past year or so has seen chassis LML/664 treated to an estimated £60,000 worth of expenditure by marque specialist Oselli. As well as a total bare metal repaint in California Sage Metallic, the 2+2-seater has benefited from sundry re-chroming (front grille / window frames / bumpers), new rubbers, overhauled SU carburettors and extensive engine / engine bay detailing not to mention the installation of a new aluminium radiator (plus associated cowlings), high torque starter motor, exhaust silencer, EZ electronic power steering, wood rim steering wheel and chrome wire wheels. Road tested following the renewal of its engine oil and anti-freeze etc, the Aston Martin possesses a 'no advisories' MOT certificate valid until May 12th 2017. Potentially Mille Miglia eligible, this decidedly smart and former concours award winning DB2/4 is worthy of close inspection. Offered for sale with UK V5C Registration Document, BMIHT Certificate, the aforementioned AML (Ltd) Build Sheet / Service Record, numerous restoration invoices / photos and tools.