Beschreibung:

Launched at the London Motor Show in 1958, the Aston Martin DB4 emphatically demonstrated that a British manufacturer could better the Italians at their own game when it came to constructing the ultimate Gran Turismo. Classically proportioned and instantly recognisable from the moment of its introduction, the Touring-styled DB4 established a look that would survive, with only minor revisions, until 1970. "Following in the classic tradition of close-coupled sports saloons, the 3.7-litre DB4 Aston Martin carries orthodox modernity to its highest pitch. A luxurious two-seat saloon which can carry four adults when necessary, it recorded almost 140mph as a two-way mean speed over the measured mile. Yet we were able to record acceleration figures from 10mph in the same gear ratio," reported The Motor magazine. That the DB4 was able to manifest this rare combination of unrestrained high performance and civilised docility was down to its magnificent engine. An all- new design, the DB4’s all-alloy, twin-overhead-camshaft 3.7-litre ‘six’ developed its maximum output of 240bhp at 5,500rpm, while the David Brown gearbox was a new four-speed all-synchromesh unit. Replacing the DB2/4’s multi-tubular spaceframe was an immensely strong platform-type chassis accommodating Touring’s Superleggera body construction that employed its own lightweight tubular structure to support the aluminium-alloy body panels. The DB2/4’s trailing-link IFS gave way to unequal-length wishbones - an arrangement similar to the W O Bentley-designed Lagonda’s - while at the rear the DB4 sported a well-located live axle using a Watts linkage instead of its predecessor’s Panhard rod. Other improvements included a David Brown steering rack and Dunlop disc brakes all round. Hand-finished by skilled craftsmen in the Aston Martin tradition, the luxurious interior featured selected Connolly hides, Wilton carpeting and walnut trim and, unlike that of many of its rivals, could accommodate four adults in a semblance of comfort. Early examples of any great car - and the Aston Martin DB4 is nothing less than that - are much sought after by collectors as, necessarily, they are closest to their designers’ original conception. In the DB4’s case a distinction is made between the Series I/II/III cars and the later Series IV/V cars with their shallower bonnet intakes and numerous other styling revisions. And although the 4-litre DB5 and DB6 enjoyed greater power, this did little more than offset the increase in weight over the lighter, sportier DB4. This rare original left-hand drive, Series III DB4 was purchased in Geneva via Garage Keller ten years ago, and has undergone extensive refurbishment at the hands of Aston Martin specialists Auto Performance, of Ivry sur Seine, France. Work undertaken has included a complete engine rebuild, gearbox/ overdrive rebuild, front suspension overhaul, repaint, interior re-trim and bumper re-chrome, while door seals, clutch, fuel pump, radio, electric aerial, Class IV alarm, electric cooling fan, brake/ clutch master cylinders, front and rear brake calipers and chromed wire wheels (x5) are among the countless new parts fitted. Numerous invoices for the period July 1994 to November 2001 record expenditure of some FF400,000. Circa 20,000 kilometres have been covered since the motor was rebuilt in July 1994. Finished in silver with red leather interior, the car is ‘on the button’ and presented in very good condition throughout. It is offered with sales brochure, valid roadworthiness certificate, invoices and Swiss Permis de Circulation. Cette DB4 Série III conduite à gauche d’origine a été achetée il y a 10 ans via le Garage Keller à Genève. Elle a fait l’objet d’une restauration soignée dans les mains du spécialiste Aston Martin, Auto Performance à Ivry s/Seine en France. Les travaux réalisés comprennent une reconstruction complète du moteur, de la boîte de vitesse et de l’overdrive, une révision des suspensions avant, une peinture complète, une nouve