Aston Martin unveiled the DB Mk III simultaneously at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show and in the US. This model has a host of credentials that make it an exceptionally unique Aston Martin model. Most notably, this became the first model to feature the iconic S-curve grille designed by Bert Thickpenny, which had a continued influence on the later models from the British luxury brand. Furthermore, it was the last car to be built on a chassis evolved from an original design by Claude Hill, which was also used by its predecessor, the DB2/4 Mk II. The DB Mk III is powered by an improved 2.9-litre Lagonda inline-six engine, redesigned by Tadek Marek. This was also one of the last Aston Martin models to be powered by the mighty Lagonda engine, originally designed by W.O. Bentley. There were three different engines for the DB Mk III – the DBA, DBD and the rare DBB, the later being the Le Mans-winning engine used in the DB3S race car.
The DB Mk III’s fame is not limited to its motor racing success; it was featured in Ian Fleming’s novel ‘Goldfinger’ released in 1959. This became the first Aston Martin to be featured in the James Bond series, before the film adaptation which featured the DB5 instead.
Aston Martin only produced 551 DB Mk IIIs between 1957 to 1959, the optional girling disc brakes became a standard feature after 100 were built.
This example is one of 84 Drophead Coupés, powered by the DBA engine, which features dual SU carburettors that provides an output of 162 horsepower. This model features the optional dual exhaust setup, which provides an increase in power to 178 horsepower, which enables this DB Mk III to go from 0-60mph (0-97 km/h) in 9.3 seconds. The engine is mated to a 4-speed manual transmission sending power to the rear wheels. Only 68 of the 84 were DBA-powered, making this one of the rarest examples in the DB Mk III range.
The car also features a black exterior, complimented by a tan Conolly leather trim. This example has clocked just over 25,000km on the odometer, and to this day is in great condition.
Year/Make/Model: DB Mk III
