DB5
The Aston Martin DB5 features naturally-aspirated 4.0-liter inline-six producing 282 horsepower (Vantage: 325-330 horsepower) through five-speed manual transmission or three-speed automatic and rear-wheel-drive, achieving 145 mph top speed with 0-60 mph in approximately 8.1 seconds. Luxury grand tourer specification includes all-aluminum engine enlarged from DB4 3.7-liter, triple SU carburetors, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with Watts linkage, four-wheel disc brakes, elegant Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera-influenced bodywork hand-built by Aston Martin Newport Pagnell facility, luxurious leather interior with wood trim, and distinctive British craftsmanship establishing premium positioning.
DB5 produced 1963-1965 represents quintessential 1960s grand tourer achieving legendary status through James Bond Goldfinger film association establishing cultural icon status transcending automotive enthusiast community, with approximately 1,000 units produced creating exclusivity and collectible values exceeding multiple millions at auction. The inline-six architecture maintains Aston Martin tradition before V8 transition, delivering refined power delivery and distinctive exhaust note characteristic of British sports cars, while hand-built construction creates bespoke quality though limiting production volumes and affecting reliability compared to mass-produced alternatives, establishing Aston Martin identity combining performance capability with luxury appointments and timeless design aesthetic, representing period when British motor industry maintained international prestige through low-volume specialist manufacturers creating aspirational products celebrating craftsmanship and heritage, with DB5 establishing design template influencing subsequent DB lineage continuing through contemporary models maintaining visual connection to 1960s icon, creating ultimate classic car investment combining beauty, performance, and cinematic heritage establishing unmatched collectible status among post-war British automobiles.