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Auction Block: 1961 Aston Martin DB4 Competition Saloon

Photo: Bonhams

There’s a reason why James Bond prefers Aston Martins. The British-born grand tourers have always been both high-performing and luxurious—and their sleek bodies just look like they’d be driven by the most prolific spy in the world.

Released the same year that Aston Martin was first adopted by 007 in the novel version of Goldfinger (albeit that model was a DB Mark III), the DB4 was produced between 1958 and 1963, with 1,204 examples made in total. This particular 1961 model on the auction block at Bonhams was rebuilt for competition in 2003 by esteemed Aston Martin authority Richard Williams for the Aston Martin Owners Club racing series. And between 2004 and 2007, this DB4 dominated its class in several classic car racing competitions, including Monterey Historics in ‘04 and ‘05.

Upon rebuilding, the 3.7-liter stock engine was enlarged to 4.5 liters, now producing 416bhp (up from 240) — basically unprecedented for any six-cylinder Aston Martin of that vintage. Also fitted were RSW camshafts, Cosworth pistons, Carrillo connecting rods, and triple twin-choke Weber 55 carburetors. Additionally, a triple-plate competition clutch transfers power from the beefed-up engined to a modded four-speed gearbox. Finally, accompanying the upgraded brakes to maximize AMOC racing regulations, the 16-inch wheels have been restored to their period-accurate appearance.

This particular Aston Martin DB4 Competition Saloon in OD green hasn’t been used since its latest acquisition in 2010. The car is offered without reserve and is estimated to go between £160,000 and £200,000 (~$210,000 to $263,000) at Bonhams’ Goodwood Members’ Meeting auction on April 10.

Purchase: $210,000+

Photo: Bonhams
Photo: Bonhams
Photo: Bonhams