Aston Martin DB4 Series I 1960, Inglaterra

Aston Martin DB4 Series I 1960, Inglaterra
Fotografia

In 1956 Aston Martin began development of the all-new DB4, which debuted at the London Motor Show in the fall of 1958. Not only did it set the tone of Aston Martin design for years to come, the DB4 also introduced an updated engine designed by Tadek Marek, whose name became synonymous with the marque’s engineering and performance excellence. The 3,670 cc DOHC engine was entirely constructed of aluminum and produced 240 bhp in standard tune with twin SU carburetors. Most important, the new 3.7-liter six-cylinder engine provided a platform for further development and continued with various displacements and power ratings through mid-1972.

Aston Martin turned to Carrozzeria Touring for its Superleggera (“superlight”) body design, comprising a lightweight yet strong framework of small-diameter tubes dressed in aluminum panels. The chassis, designed by Harold Beach, was both simpler and more rigid than that of its predecessors, using a new pressed-steel frame. Four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes matched the car’s impressive top speed of over 140 mph. The DB4 claims the distinction of being the first production car capable of sprinting from 0–100 mph and back down to zero in less than 30 seconds. It is fair to say, then, that the DB4 placed Aston Martin back on equal footing with its Italian counterparts from Ferrari and Maserati.

Offered complete with a copy of its original build sheet, this first-series DB4 from 1960 is an original left-hand-drive example. The car was originally delivered to Charles Hornburg, Aston Martin’s premier U.S. West Coast importer. Through Hornburg, the car was sold new to Paul S. Pollack (Karl’s Shoes Limited) of Los Angeles, California. Though much of this DB4’s early history remains unknown, in the 1990s it was owned and fully restored by well-known and respected Aston Martin vintage racing technician Mr. S. Rodd., now an Aston Martin franchise dealer-owner.

Around 2000, this DB4 was traded to Aston Martin dealer Miller Motorcars in Greenwich, Connecticut. Subsequently, 245/L found a home with Mr. Raymond Minella, a well-known Connecticut collector. In Minella’s care, this DB4 won several 1st in Class concours awards. The car was then sold to another well-known Aston Martin collector and moved across the ocean to the UK. Purchased in 2011 by Tom Papadopoulos of Autosport Designs, 245/L returned to the United States. Having only 6,000 miles since complete restoration, it was thoroughly serviced and used for several seasons of motoring enjoyment. In 2016 it took part in the Colorado Grand 1,000-mile vintage rally. Shortly thereafter, the car was sold to its most recent caretaker. During this time, it was decided to return 245/L to its original color combination of Snow Shadow Grey over a lovely Red leather interior. It has thus been the subject of a complete photo-documented cosmetic restoration and is now presented in exceptional concours condition throughout.

The Series 1, with its rear-hinged bonnet, is considered by many to be the most beautiful of the DB4 range for its egg-crate front grille, larger bonnet scoop, and straight cathedral taillights, all part of the original Touring of Milan design. This example, complete with books, tools, and factory jack, will make for a welcome addition to an enthusiast’s garage or collection.