[ ADS ON TEST ]
This example of the once-overlooked DBS/6 makes a strong case for itself, especially in Vantage spec, finds Richard Gunn
£100k spent on this DBS, and it shows
The DBS has been regarded as a stop-gap in the David Brown Aston range; carrying over the DB6 engine to a heavier machine always intended for a V8. Let’s face it though, Aston Martin was notoriously over-optimistic about its Sixties cars’ power output, and if a well-rebuilt straight-six makes anything like its quoted 325bhp it matches an early factory V8’s anyway.
This car’s three Weber carburettors seem perfectly in tune with each other, so there’s no rough idling or hesitation during acceleration. The ZF five-speed manual transmission does its job well, although its oil does need to warm up properly for it to feel properly slick through the ratios. The power steering is well-weighted and accurate, the brakes responsive enough to rapidly bleed offspeed without any noticeable issues.
Interior patinated, gearbox needs warming up
While it’s unclear when any restoration was carried out, the excellent state of this DBS suggests some work in the not-toodistant past – the history folder totals £100k-worth of receipts over the years. Where that’s most obvious is on the black front valance, a hefty panel that often deteriorates. Here though, there are just a few blemishes and stonechips; even the mounting bolts are free from rust. The Fiesta Red paintwork is unmarked and of a consistent shade throughout. Chrome is sparkling with only minor tarnishing in a few isolated spots. The wire wheels are similarly good, albeit with the hub spinners displaying a few scratches. Tyres are Avon 205 R15 97H radials and while they look fresh enough with plenty of tread, we couldn’t locate date stamps.
Inside, the cabin looks largely original. And it is holding up well. Carpet wear is minimal and there’s some patina of medium cracking and creasing on the leather seats. The door cards and footwell linings have some minor marking, and it looks like there’s some surface rust under the mats around the pedal cluster. The organ-type accelerator pedal has similar corrosion too. The panel around the ignition barrel has some scratching. A modern Alpine radio/CD player is fitted but for anybody wanting something more period, there’s a Radiomobile eight-track – with some ABBA cartridges – loose in the boot. All gauges and controls appear functional, with even the clock working.
Triple Webers equals Vantage specification
The engine bay is generally clean and tidy but not overly-detailed so the black-painted inner wings show a little grime and dirt. All wiring looks stock. Corrosion is confined to the exhaust manifold and around the brake and clutch fluid reservoir, both prone areas. The DBS fires up easily and shows a reassuring 80psi on its oil pressure gauge at cold idle. All the fluids are topped up and look clean, as does the air filter. Beneath the Aston, a stainless steel exhaust has been fitted and comprehensive undersealing undertaken.
Of the 787 six-cylinder DBS models produced, just 300 received the more potent Vantage engines, so there’s a premium price tag to this car. However, it is in lovely external condition, with a well-preserved cabin and a charismatic and fabulous way that it behaves in action.
CHOOSE YOUR ASTON MARTIN DBS
► After announcing its intention to build a 170mph four-seater V8 supercar in 1966, Aston Martin commissioned the design for the new DBS from Touring of Milan, which produced two prototypes. The design was rejected because of anticipated servicing problems as well as development delays with the new 5.3-litre V8 engine.
► The William Towns-designed DBS was rushed into production for the following year, albeit with the straight-six in SU-carburetted standard tune and Weber-equipped Vantage specification from the outgoing DB6.
► DBS V8 finally available in 1969.
► Both cars restyled in 1972, named simply V8, and AM Vantage for the six-cylinder car. The latter was discontinued in 1973. The former remained in production for another 18 years.
1970 Aston Martin DBS Vantage
Price £149,950
Contact Greenside Cars, Holt (01263 713362, 07831 463743, greensidecars.com)
Engine 3995cc six-cylinder, dohc three carburettors
Power 325bhp @5750rpm
Torque 290lb ft @4500rpm
Top speed 150mph
0-60mph 7.8sec
Fuel consumption 10.7-21.9mpg
Length 4580mm
Width 1830mm
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