DB6

Clearly evolved from the DB4 and DB5, the new model was announced at the London Motor Show in October 1965.

The most noticeable styling changes on the DB6 were the Kamm tail rear spoiler, which improved high speed stability, the split front and rear bumpers; a redesigned oil cooler aperture in the front valance, a higher roof line (136 cm) and longer wheelbase (258.5 cm), 9.5 cm more than the DB5, giving an overall length of 462 cm. The increase of space in the rear made the DB6 a more practical family proposition.

'Volante' is born

The last thirty-seven DB5 chassis were used in conjunction with some DB6 design cues to build the desirable Aston Martin Volante (often called Short-Chassis Volante), completed between October 1965 and October 1966. This was indeed the first Aston Martin convertible to be called a ‘Volante’ – a derivation of the Italian word for ‘flying’.

In August 1969, a revised Mk2 version of the DB6 was launched with subtle flares to the wheel arches and wider tyres.

The DB6 was a highly fashionable car to be seen in, famous owners including HRH Prince Charles, Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Twiggy and Peter Sellers.

Specifications

Price New:
£ 4,998 (Saloon), £ 4,194 (Convertible)
Engine:
DOHC Straight six, 3995 cc, 282 bhp @ 5500 rpm
280 lbs-ft @ 4500 rpm
Transmission:
ZF 5-speed overdrive manual or Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
Suspension:
Front: Telescopic shock absorbers and anti-roll bar
Rear: Helical coil springs with double acting lever arm shock absorbers
Brakes:
Girling servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
Dimensions (LxWxH):
4620 x 1680 x 1320 mm
Weight:
1468 kg (Saloon), 1466 kg (Volante)
Top Speed:
148 mph
0 – 60 mph:
6.1 sec

DB6 for a Friend

At a business function in London in 1968, David Brown was approached by an old contact and friend, who asked him if it would be possible as a favour to purchase a new DB6 at cost price. It was common knowledge that sales were going through a slow patch at the time.

David Brown replied that he would be delighted to oblige, and several days later the friend received an invoice for £1000 more than the published list price for the car. Embellished story or not, it is certainly true that in this era, craftsmanship took priority over profit.

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