1957 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mark II Saloon

Description

The history of David Brown’s Aston Martins can be traced back to the first post-war model, known as the 2-litre Sports, more commonly referred to as the DB1.  Combining pre-war technology with modern styling, just 15 were completed before the introduction of the all-new DB2, a successful marriage of W O Bentley’s 2.6-litre in-line six (the motor David Brown specifically purchased Lagonda to obtain) and a chassis designed by another ex-Lagonda engineer, Frank Feeley.  Originally conceived by W O Bentley and Willie Watson in 1946, the engine featured twin overhead camshafts and produced 105 horsepower in twin carburettor guise.  With over 400 built, the DB2 proved a commercial success while appearances at major sporting events like the Le Mans 24-Hour endurance race put Aston Martin firmly on the map.  A heavily revised model, badged the DB2/4, appeared at the 1953 London Motor Show, adding occasional rear seats to overcome a major criticism levelled at the DB2, along with a hatchback for better access to the luggage compartment.  Built on a longer wheelbase, the DB2/4 also featured an uprated version of the 2.6-litre engine while the Vantage was powered by an enlarged 2.9-litre unit.  Further improvements took place in 1955 with the introduction of the Mark II version, with the 3-litre VB6J engine adopted as standard on all models.  The first Aston Martin to have its bodywork produced at the Tickford works at Newport Pagnell, the DB2/4 Mark II also benefited from a number of changes to the trim and the roofline was raised slightly for additional headroom.  An exclusive grand tourer, the DB2/4 was capable of reaching 120mph and competed rallies such as the Mille Miglia and Monte Carlo, enjoying good success.  Hardly surprising given the hand-made nature and expensive price tag, Aston Martin built just 199 Mark IIs in total, of which 145 were saloons, 34 were fixed-head coupes, 16 were drophead coupes and a further four chassis were set aside for other coachbuilders.  Each of the surviving examples is highly prized and DB2/4s are regularly found on concours lawns and in rallies around the world.