In 1965, Aston Martin unveiled the DB6, marking the apex of their esteemed line of ‘DB’ six-cylinder sports saloons and often hailed as the quintessential Aston Martin. Succeeding the iconic DB5, the DB6 retained the lineage’s essence while embracing contemporary updates. While it bore familial resemblance to the Touring-styled DB4 from 1958, the DB6 departed from its predecessors’ Superleggera body structure, opting for a conventional steel fabrication.
With a 4-inch longer wheelbase, the DB6 underwent extensive restyling, featuring a more sharply raked windscreen, heightened roofline, and redesigned rear quarter windows. Noteworthy additions included the return of the opening front quarter lights and the introduction of a Kamm-style tail with a spoiler, enhancing aerodynamics and stability at high speeds.
The modifications were met with acclaim, particularly regarding the enhanced headroom and expanded luggage space. Powering the DB6 was the renowned Tadek Marek-designed 3,995cc six-cylinder engine, maintaining its predecessor’s power output of 282bhp with triple SU carburetors, and escalating to 325bhp in Vantage specification.
Alongside the standard ZF five-speed gearbox, Aston Martin offered Borg-Warner automatic transmission and, for the first time, optional power-assisted steering, underscoring the DB6’s commitment to performance and refinement.
Photo Source: RM Sotheby’s
