The Aston Martin DB6 is one of the most elegant and historically important grand tourers of the 1960s, representing the peak of Aston Martin’s classic “DB” lineage before the company moved into a new design era. Origins and Development The DB6 was introduced in 1965 as the successor to the highly successful DB5, which had already achieved global fame thanks to its association with James Bond. While the DB6 looked similar at first glance, it was a more mature, refined, and practical evolution rather than a radical redesign. Aston Martin’s goal was to improve: High-speed stability Passenger comfort Long-distance touring capability These priorities reflected the DB6’s role as a true Grand Tourer, designed for fast continental travel rather than outright racing. Design and Engineering Exterior Styled by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan Retained the DB5’s proportions but with a longer wheelbase Introduced the distinctive “Kamm tail” (cut-off rear) Improved aerodynamic stability at high speeds Reduced rear-end lift, a known issue on earlier DB models Interior More spacious rear seating than the DB5 Improved ventilation and comfort High levels of hand-crafted luxury: leather, wool carpets, walnut trim Mechanical Specifications Engine: 4.0-liter inline-six Output: ~282 bhp (standard), ~325 bhp (Vantage) Top speed: ~150 mph (Vantage models) Transmission: 5-speed ZF manual Optional Borg-Warner automatic Variants DB6 (1965–1969) The standard model Focused on comfort and refinement DB6 Vantage Higher compression engine Triple Weber carburetors More performance-focused and rarer DB6 Volante (Convertible) Produced from 1966 One of the most elegant open-top GTs of its era Far rarer than the coupe DB6 vs Mark II DB6 (1965–1969): Original design Mark II (1969–1970): Wider wheels Flared wheel arches Optional fuel injection Built in smaller numbers Cultural and Historical Significance Unlike the DB5, the DB6 never officially appeared in a James Bond film However, it became a favourite among royalty, industrialists, and celebrities Famously owned by Sir Paul McCartney, whose DB6 gained legendary status after a psychedelic paint job in the late 1960s The DB6 marked the end of the Touring-bodied DB era. Its successor, the DBS, signalled a shift toward a more modern, angular design language. Legacy and Collectability Today, the Aston Martin DB6 is prized for: Its understated elegance compared to the DB5 Superior driving comfort Classic British craftsmanship Collectors often view it as: More usable than the DB5 Slightly less famous, but arguably more refined A purist’s choice among classic Aston Martins In Summary The Aston Martin DB6 represents: The culmination of Aston Martin’s classic 1960s grand touring philosophy A bridge between old-world craftsmanship and modern performance thinking One of the finest expressions of British automotive elegance ever built This Car This 1969 Aston Martin DB6 was one of the last batch of cars built before the DB6 MKII was launched. Sold new by HR Owen in London and order in Silver Birch with Black trim, ther extras order at the time were: Borg Warner Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning Power Steering Immersion Heater Front Seat Belts Chrome wire Wheels Heated Raer Screen Three eared Wheel Spinners Limited Slip Diff 3.54:1 Power Aerial White Wall Tyres The car was fitted with a Tudor/Webasto sunroof in period. DB6/4070/R was Purchased by the current owner in 2006 and has been subject to a full stage by stage refurbishment with the following work carried out by known Aston Martin specialist: New inner and outer side sills New front end and wings Total bare metal repaint in Caribbean Blue by Colbrook Ltd New sunroof Engine block welded by RS Williams and engine re-built to standard 4.0 litre specification by Chris Woodgate in 2013 Gearbox overhaul by Chris Woodgate Refurbished oil cooler and coolant radiator and heater radiator All new suspension and Brakes New Avon Tyres All chrome work by Darby plating The list continues and all in keeping with the correct Aston Martin methods and specification. A great driver's car and pretty a car not to worry about and accepted in any motoring event.