Aston Martin DB5 (1963)

Perhaps the most famous Aston Martin because of the specially equipped silver birch Aston Martin DB5 that starred in the James Bond films "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball". The Aston Martin DB5 made a comeback to the big screen in the 1995 film "GoldenEye".

Regarded by many as the most beautiful Aston Martin produced, Aston Martin DB5 shares many similar traits to Aston Martin DB4. However, DB5's most substantial change occurred under the bonnet. The 6 cylinder engine increased its capacity to 4 litres by increasing the bore to 96mm. Significant too was the introduction of a true full synchromesh ZF 5 speed gearbox. Other chassis changes included the adoption of the Girling disc brakes that had only been used on the Aston Martin DB4 GT, and 15" wheels.

A convertible was also offered and was available with a steel hard top with an exceptionally large rear window.

Technical Specifications

* Engine: dohc I-6, 3995 cc, 282 bhp @ 5500 rpm, 288 lbs-ft @ 3850 rpm (Vantage option: 314bhp @ 5750 rpm)
* Transmission: 4-speed manual with optional overdrive, ZF 5-speed manual (standard from mid-1964), and optional Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
* Suspension: Front: upper-and-lower A-arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar Rear: live axle, Watt linkage, trailing links, coil springs
* Brakes: Servo assisted front/rear discs
* Length: 15'0"
* Width: 5'6"
* Wheelbase: 8'2"
* Weight: 1466 kg
* Top Speed: 142 mph
* 0-60 mph: 7.1 sec.

* Price New: £4,175 (Aston Martin DB5), £4,490 (Convertible)
* Production
o 886 Standard
o 123 Convertibles
o 12 Shooting Brakes
* Production Dates: July 1963 - September 1965