Originally designed to accommodate the new Tadek Marek V8 engine, the DBS was initially launched with a 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine borrowed from the concurrent DB6 model. Despite its larger size and more luxurious features compared to the DB6, the DBS faced criticism for its slightly diminished performance due to its increased weight.
However, all doubts were dispelled in 1969 when the V8 engine was introduced. Equipped with a 5,340cc, fuel-injected, four-cam powertrain, the DBS V8 delivered an impressive 345bhp, propelling it from 0 to 100mph in under 14 seconds and granting it a top speed of 160mph. This extraordinary performance earned it the prestigious title of the world’s fastest production car at the time.
In 1972, following Aston Martin’s acquisition by Company Developments, the V8-engined models underwent a name change, transforming the DBS V8 into the AM V8. The subsequent Series 2 model was easily identifiable by its restyled front end, featuring two headlamps instead of four, reminiscent of the earlier six-cylinder DB models. Notably, electronic ignition and air conditioning became standard features.
The Series 3, launched in 1973, adopted four Weber 42 DCNF carburetors in place of the previous Bosch mechanical fuel injection system. This modification resulted in increased torque and required a larger bonnet bulge. Despite the transition, fuel efficiency improved, and even the automatic transmission variant with Weber carburetors proved nearly as swift as its manual predecessor.
Source: Bonhams
