Aston Martin owner David Brown’s acquisition of Lagonda in 1947 paved the way for the introduction of the DB2, utilizing Lagonda’s Willie Watson-designed, twin-overhead-camshaft, 2.6-litre six engine. Unveiled in April 1950, production began the following month, and the DB2 drew significant inspiration from the earlier Claude Hill-designed DB1.
The DB2 adopted a shortened and modified version of the DB1’s chassis along with identical suspension components. The elegantly timeless GT bodywork, influenced by Italian design, was the work of Frank Feeley. With increased power (105bhp at 5,000rpm) and reduced weight, the streamlined DB2 easily surpassed its predecessor in performance.
The DB2’s body provided ample interior space for two occupants and featured a practical forward-hinging entire front section, enhancing maintenance accessibility. The coach-built DB2 bodies exhibited traditional craftsmanship, leading to distinct variations among individual examples, notably in the treatment of the front grille. A drophead coupé version was introduced in late 1950. By the end of production in April 1953, a total of 411 DB2s had been manufactured, including 98 dropheads, with 75 of them configured for left-hand drive.
Source: Bonhams Cars
