Aston Martin DB 2 MKIII '59

• 1959 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III, one of only approximately 551 examples produced
• Final evolution of the DB2 series – predecessor to the legendary DB4
• Extremely rare left-hand-drive version, originally intended for the American market
• Delivered new on 28 August 1958 in its original factory colour Cardinal Grey
• Special factory specification featuring a sliding roof, front disc brakes and overdrive
• Originally equipped with twin S.U. HV6 carburettors and DBLOW/0/254 gearbox
• Imported from the United States to the Netherlands in 2021, supported by Californian and customs documentation

The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III ranks among the most elegant and sought-after British sports cars of the 1950s. Introduced in 1957 as the final evolution of the successful DB2/4 series, the model remained in production until 1959. With a total production of only approximately 551 examples, the Mk III is a rare sight today. The model also introduced the distinctive Aston Martin radiator grille, which would later become one of the brand's most recognisable design features.

The DB2/4 Mk III represents the final evolution of the original DB2 model family and is regarded as the direct predecessor to the legendary DB4. This particular example is further distinguished by its left-hand-drive configuration, originally intended for the American market. Within the limited production of the DB2/4 Mk III, left-hand-drive examples are particularly sought after and considerably less common than the traditional right-hand-drive British versions. Combined with its exceptional factory equipment and documented American history, this makes the car especially interesting to collectors.

Beneath the long bonnet lies the 2,922 cc inline six-cylinder engine, a development of the renowned Lagonda engine originally designed by W.O. Bentley. In its standard configuration with twin S.U. carburettors, this engine produced approximately 162 bhp and offered an excellent combination of smoothness and sporting performance. The Mk III was also distinguished by technical improvements to the drivetrain, chassis and braking system.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this example is its documented factory specification. According to the available factory records, the car was delivered new on 28 August 1958 in the elegant Cardinal Grey colour, equipped with twin S.U. HV6 carburettors and gearbox DBLOW/0/254. It was also factory-equipped with a remarkable combination of features, including a sliding roof, overdrive and disc brakes on the front wheels.

These features make the car particularly interesting from a historical perspective. The DB2/4 Mk III was among the first Aston Martin models to feature front disc brakes, representing an important technical advancement over its predecessors. The overdrive allowed for more comfortable driving at higher speeds, while the sliding roof is a particularly charming and less common factory feature. The exact rarity of this combined specification is not documented, but the accompanying copy of the factory options list provides valuable confirmation of the car's original configuration.

The international history of this Aston Martin is equally noteworthy. The car spent part of its life in the United States before being imported from America to the Netherlands in 2021. This import history is supported by a copy of the State of California Certificate of Title and the corresponding customs documentation. Dutch registration documents and a maintenance invoice are also present.

This example underwent a professional restoration some years ago and is currently presented in a beige exterior colour with a well-maintained, restored interior. The bodywork and paintwork now show signs of use and offer opportunities for further improvement. According to the inspection report, the engine is in good, honest condition and the car has been well maintained. The clutch, gearbox and brakes function properly, while certain technical components would benefit from further attention. The car is also equipped with electric power steering.

With its limited production numbers, elegant British styling, rare left-hand-drive configuration, special factory equipment and documented American history, this Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III represents an interesting opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts of classic British sports cars. In particular, the combination of its original Cardinal Grey specification, factory-fitted sliding roof, overdrive and front disc brakes gives this example a particularly appealing historical character.

Our Oldtimerfarm inspection team has prepared an inspection report for this vehicle.

Technical specifications

• Make: Aston Martin
• Model: DB2/4 Mk III
• Year of manufacture: 1959
• Date of first registration: 28/02/1959
• Engine displacement: 2,922 cc
• Engine: Inline six-cylinder, originally equipped with twin S.U. HV6 carburettors
• Transmission: Manual gearbox, originally DBLOW/0/254 with overdrive according to factory records
• Colour: Beige (original factory colour: Cardinal Grey)
• Odometer reading: 53,444 km
• Chassis number: AM30031642
• Steering position: Left-hand drive (LHD), American specification

Condition and points requiring attention

Restoration and originality

• Older professional restoration

Bodywork

• Repainted
• Signs of use
• Older paintwork with room for improvement
• Dents
• Rust bubbles beneath the paintwork

Paintwork

• Damaged, but still presents reasonably well
• Dents present
• Numerous cracks in the paintwork

Underside

• Original and in good condition, older restoration
• Rust spot on the chassis crossmember at the left rear
• Exhaust leak

Tyres

• In good condition, should last a few more years
• Tyres date from 2006

Interior, hood and carpets

• Attractive and restored
• Carpets in very good condition

Chassis number inspection

• Original and clearly legible
• Location: Front right chassis member

Engine compartment

• Good, honest condition

Engine and mechanical components

Engine

• Good, honest condition

Fluids and maintenance

• Well maintained

Battery

• In good condition

Clutch

• Works properly

Gearbox

• Works properly

Brakes

• Work properly

Handbrake

• Works properly

Electrical system

• Horn works
• Windscreen wipers work
• Heating does not work
• Dashboard functions correctly
• Windscreen washers do not work

Lighting

• Works properly

Axles and suspension

• Repair required
• Slight play in the front right kingpin
• Drives very well, with room for refinement
• Equipped with electric power steering

Drives excellently, shifts smoothly and brakes powerfully.

Documents

• Dutch registration documents
• Maintenance invoice
• Copy of the State of California Certificate of Title
• Customs documents relating to the import from the United States to the Netherlands in 2021
• Copy of the factory options list showing the original specifications and factory equipment
• Car-Pass link: https://public.car-pass.be/vhr/64f8cf03-9d8c-407b-b1b6-82b06ae74025

This 1959 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III can be viewed at Oldtimerfarm, Lobulckstraat 9, 9880 Aalter, Belgium.

Visits are possible with or without an appointment. If desired, the vehicle can also be inspected on a vehicle lift.

Oldtimerfarm has more than 300 classic cars and motorcycles and is located just 5 minutes from the Aalter exit of the E40 motorway.

Watch our videos as well:

Warranty:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mv9nimvtu8M

Mileage of classic vehicles (km/miles):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-sd5QJg5po

Purchasing procedure:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNc9Ag1mDPQ
 

Walkaround video: Click Here