The 1971 Aston Martin DBS V8 perfectly encapsulates the idea of "Britishness", through its blend of tradition, innovation, and elegance, delivering a driving experience that is as much about character as it is about capability. Read on about this beautiful and rare example, equipped with the sought after manual transmission, it follows a recent, thorough restoration.

‍

The Model

The DBS debuted in 1967 as a completely new generation of grand tourer for Aston Martin. It replaced the long-running DB6, with the elegant design of the DB6 making way for a larger and more muscular shape designed by William Towns. This set a new design trajectory for Aston’s of the 70’s and one still hinted at in some modern Aston Martins today.

Initially, the DBS carried over the straight-six from the DB6. It was not until 1969, due to development delays, that a V8 found its way under the bonnet of the DBS and marking Aston Martin’s first foray with a V8, an engine configuration that continues to be a hallmark of the brand.

Not only was this the first Aston Martin to house 8-cylinders, but it was also the last car to have been designed under the ownership of David Brown and Aston Martin’s longest-serving design, having been available from 1967 to 1989, so enduring was the car.

The DBS V8 was Aston’s retort to the Italian challengers, it introduced more space and pace than before, it was designed to be a high-performance car whilst offering impeccable road manners, a brief that it nailed.

‍

This Car

This superb example was originally delivered new in October 1971, wisely specified to include the rare yet highly desirable manual specification and presented in Azzurro Blue and with matching numbers. This is 1 of only 182 manual right-hand drive DBS V8's made.

The car received an extensive restoration programme between 2018 to 2021, all properly documented in a well-presented history file. No expense was spared in the programme ensuring that it is simply an object of beauty today. The paintwork is immaculate following a bare metal respray, the engine bay looks as though it is fresh from the factory, and the interior is simply delightful with only a gentle patina on the leather giving a nod to its age and originality.

With the key in the ignition and a turn you are rewarded with the growl of British V8, a sound that sets your hairs on end. The car drives and steers just as you’d expect, it’s roadholding still as impeccable today as it was some 50-odd years ago.

So accurate was the restoration of this car, that it has recently been featured in a book called The Essence – Volume 3, which focuses on the Aston Martin DBS, it is a wonderful read and an essential addition to any Aston Martin collector’s archive. A copy of this is included in the car.

‍

Summary

The Aston Martin DBS V8 is an important motor car, the first Aston V8, the last car designed under the ownership of David Brown and an enduring design which lasted over 20 years and still offers inspiration to modern Aston Martins.

Not only was it important, but it was also a great car. It excelled at covering distance, at high-speed, for four in comfort with generous luggage space. But it was also an outstanding driver’s car with engaging handling, a characterful V8 and a tactile manual gearbox.

If you are looking for an Aston Martin DBS V8 to add to the collection, this is the car to have, it is in the right specification, has received a comprehensive restoration at a formidable expense and is as rare as hens teeth. It ticks all the boxes.

Please do make contact to find out more about this wonderful car and to arrange a viewing, you won’t be disappointed.

‍