1963 Aston Martin DB5

• Aston Martin's Iconic Milestone: Celebrating 60 years since the introduction of the 1963 Aston Martin DB5, a car that defined British luxury and style.

• DB5's Timeless Legacy: The DB5 remains an enduring symbol of British culture, innovation, and desirability, securing its place in history.

• Goodwood Revival Showcase: The DB5 took center stage at the Goodwood Revival festival, standing alongside the latest addition to Aston Martin's prestigious DB lineup, the DB12 Super Tourer.

• Aston Martin's Heritage: Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman and DB5 owner, reflects on how the DB5 laid the foundation for Aston Martin's identity as a luxury brand renowned for style, performance, and exclusivity.

• 1963: A Pivotal Year: In 1963, Aston Martin introduced the DB5 with significant design and technical improvements, marking a new era in luxury sports car manufacturing.

• The Celebrity Connection: Beyond James Bond, celebrities like The Beatles' Paul McCartney and George Harrison, as well as Rolling Stone Mick Jagger, embraced the DB5, propelling its popularity.

• Limited Production, Global Impact: Despite its limited production—887 saloons, 123 convertibles, and 12 shooting brakes—the DB5's influence on the automotive world was immense.

• Power and Innovation: The DB5 featured a reworked 4.0-liter engine, delivering a formidable 282 bhp, along with technical advancements like electric windows and air conditioning, setting new standards for performance and comfort.

• Film Stardom: The DB5's legendary appearances in James Bond films, including "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball," contributed significantly to its fame and status.

• Technical Excellence: With a 4-liter engine, a true full synchromesh ZF 5-speed gearbox, Girling disc brakes, and a convertible option, the DB5 showcased technical excellence that matched its striking design.

In September 2023, Aston Martin celebrated the remarkable 60th anniversary of the iconic 1963 Aston Martin DB5. This historic model played a pivotal role in establishing Aston Martin as a symbol of British luxury and innovation. Astonishingly, the DB5's legacy endures to this day as one of the most globally recognized cars.

At the recent Goodwood Revival festival in Sussex, the DB5 took center stage alongside the latest addition to the DB lineage, the DB12 Super Tourer. These two symbols of Aston Martin's proud heritage and promising future were captured in a series of images released to commemorate this milestone.

Reflecting on the enduring appeal of the DB5, Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin's Executive Chairman and a proud DB5 owner, stated, "The DB5 epitomizes Aston Martin's identity as a British luxury brand synonymous with style, performance, and exclusivity. As it turns 60, we celebrate its extraordinary role in our 110-year heritage."

In the early 1960s, the DB4 was a success for Aston Martin, but the competition in the luxury sports car market was fierce. The DB5, unveiled at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show, brought a fresh approach with significant design and technical enhancements, including a more powerful engine. This new name, DB5, became synonymous with style and desirability.

Production of the DB5 saloon and later, the convertible, lasted just over two years, but it left an indelible mark. Notably, the choice to feature this iconic car in James Bond films solidified its place in automotive history. Beyond 007, celebrities like The Beatles' Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Rolling Stone Mick Jagger joined the ranks of DB5 patrons.

The DB5's celebrity appeal propelled Aston Martin to global recognition. Astonishingly, only a limited number of these cars were produced - 887 saloons, 123 convertibles, and 12 bespoke coach-built shooting brakes. Despite this, the DB5's impact on the automotive world was monumental.

Under the hood, the DB5 showcased a reworked 4.0-liter engine, delivering an impressive 282 bhp, a potent figure for its time. Technical advancements like electric windows and air conditioning met the evolving demands of customers. Its performance, with a top speed exceeding 150 mph, earned it the title of the fastest 4-seat GT car globally.

The DB5's fame was further solidified by its appearances in James Bond films, particularly "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball." In 1995, it made a grand return in "GoldenEye." Renowned for its stunning design, the DB5 featured a 4-liter engine, a true full synchromesh ZF 5-speed gearbox, and Girling disc brakes. A convertible variant with a steel hardtop was also available.

Technical Specifications:

• Engine: 4.0-liter I-6, 282 bhp
• Transmission: 4-speed manual with optional overdrive, later offered with a 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatic
• Suspension: Front - upper-and-lower A-arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar; Rear - live axle, Watt linkage, trailing links, coil springs
• Brakes: Servo assisted front/rear discs
• Dimensions: Length - 15'0", Width - 5'6", Wheelbase - 8'2", Weight - 1466 kg
• Top Speed: 142 mph, 0-60 mph in 7.1 sec
• Price New: £4,175 (Aston Martin DB5), £4,490 (Convertible)

Production Numbers:

• 886 Standard
• 123 Convertibles
• 12 Shooting Brakes
• Production Dates: July 1963 - September 1965

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