The DBS set the tone for a new generation of Aston Martin models when it arrived in 1967. Here’s our essential owner’s guide
Sponsored editorial in association with Beverly Hills Car Club
The Aston Martin DBS was introduced in 1967 as a squared-off, more muscular companion for the svelte DB6 in the manufacturer’s range. That muscularity was originally supposed to extend under the bonnet with an all-new V8 engine, but this didn’t arrive until 1970. The tried-and-tested DB6 straight-six was used in earlier models instead.
The two engines were offered alongside each other until the arrival of the even more macho AM V8, a car whose largely snow-based exploits with James Bond would garner plenty of attention for the brand. The DBS had its own on-screen fame, however, in Roger Moore vehicle The Persuaders.
The DBS’ clean looks and perfect combination of power and comfort mean it’s a desirable and very valuable car today. If you’re in the market, here are some tips for happy ownership.
Engine, transmission and mechanicals
While specialist attention is always advised with higher-end machinery, a keen DIY mechanic can get stuck in. You’ll need a set of imperial AF tools, sturdy lifting equipment, plus specialist tools for any pre-load work on wheel bearings.
Regular maintenance, including oil changes and coolant flushes, is key to a healthy engine, regardless of whether it’s a straight-six or V8. Oil leaks can be common; a full and detailed list can be found in our DBS buyer’s guide.
Manual and automatic gearboxes were offered on both engines; its worth noting that while V8 models originally used a TorqueFlite unit, some cars will have had the BorgWarner unit from the six-cylinder car swapped in.
Bodywork and interior
Corrosion is your enemy, both on the car’s aluminium exterior panels and its steel framework, so keep an eye out: even small blemishes can result in expensive repairs if a panel respray is needed. Those panels are hard to come by, so any major bump could be expensive.
Underneath, corrosion traps include the steel box sections parallel to the sills, as well as the front footwells and bulkhead.
It’s worth noting that while there’s ample space for four people inside the DBS, seatbelts are reserved for those travelling in the front.
Finding a good example
When spending serious money on a classic car – particularly one prone to corrosion like the DBS – it pays to look abroad to drier climates where rain and salty roads haven’t eaten away precious original bodywork.
The west coast of America is a popular classic-car shopping destination for this reason – and one of its biggest dealers is Beverley Hills Car Club in Los Angeles. The car you see in these images is one of three DBS examples currently for sale at the dealer – one of just 181 left-hand drive examples made. Presented as a non-running project but in sound condition, it’s sure to be a great place to start.
Sponsored by Beverly Hills Car Club
The automobiles sold at Beverly Hills Car Club combine all the elements of its exclusive address in Los Angeles: cars for sale that are the very last word in tasteful elegance, chic and impressive sophistication, with careful attention given to each vehicle and each client. Both national and international customers are catered for, with a huge stock of classics to choose from.
For more information and to view the Beverly Hills Car Club stock, visit www.beverlyhillscarclub.com
