Aston Martin had always planned on using its V8 engine for the DBS, first seen in five litre form in the works Lola Aston Martin sports-racing cars. However, production problems, intervened and subsequently the four litre, twin overhead camshaft, straight six from the DB6 was used. It was not until September 1967 that the DBS V8 was finally announced with production commencing the following April. Tadek Marek's all-alloy V8 boasting four overhead camshafts and Bosch electronic fuel injection produced an impressive 320bhp at 5000rpm; the resultant 160mph plus performance was nothing short of sensational in 1970. Shortly after David Brown sold Aston Martin in 1972, the Series II model replaced the DBS. Gone were the four headlamps and slatted grille and in their place was a black mesh grille with single headlamps. The major mechanical changes were limited to electronic ignition and standard air conditioning.
Supplied new by Sloane Street Aston Martin to its first owner, Harlow and Jones Ltd of Haymarket, London, on 2nd March 1977. Presented in the period colour combination of Cairngorm Brown over Magnolia leather interior, this Aston has been treated to much restoration work during its life with previous works including an extensive repaint to the body as well as further renovation to the engine compartment. Having been dry stored for many years, both the paintwork and bodywork are in good order and show little sign of age, very few stone chips are present to the front of the car and the shut lines are notably very good. The interior also presents well, both the leather seats and door cards are very clean showing no signs of mistreatment, and the dashboard and centre console remain in very good order.
The car is offered with the original Aston Martin handbook, service voucher and instruction booklets as well as many previous MoT test certificates, sundry invoices and photographs detailing the extensive respray to the body. Having come from eight years of single ownership and showing a modest 94,139 miles on the odometer, this example will be a fantastic touring car for the new custodian.