Chassis No. DB4/845/R

Engine No. 370/911

Jim Taylor has been an Aston Martin connoisseur for many years, and has acquired not only many of the most special models, but unique examples thereof – cars with excellent known history and unusual presentations that make them stand out from the rest. His blue DB4 is one such example, proudly showing off its rich history earned over decades of enjoyment.

This DB4, chassis no. DB4/845/R, was ordered as a right-hand-drive model, completed in late November 1961 to an order from dealers Brooklands of Bond Street. Equipped with the same engine as today, it was finished in an unusual hue, Delphinium Blue, with black interior and optional features of overdrive, Power Lok differential, Borrani wire wheels with knock-off hubcaps, oil cooler, Marchal headlights, heated rear window, oil temperature gauge, and "Special interior leather trimming and carpeting."

A copy of the original British registration book, included in the file, notes that the first owner was Terence Sansom of Brighton. Copies of the Aston Martin Dorset build and service records, note that Mr. Sansom was a fastidious caretaker, as well as that repairs were carried out in February 1962 following an accident at only 3,879 miles. Most importantly the car was upgraded that April with the engine converted to Special Series specification, predecessor to the future Vantage option, with three carburetors as well as larger valves and 9:1 compression.

The DB4 would go on to change hands a further five times among British caretakers through 1969, by which time the car had been refinished in yellow. Following an engine rebuild in 1970, it was exported to the United States for a new owner, Mark E. Leistickow of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mr. Leistickow subsequently relocated with the DB4 to Miami in 1977, and maintained it there afterward for many years.

In 2013 the car was acquired by James D. Zahringer of West Palm Beach, Florida, and shortly thereafter purchased by Jim Taylor. It wears an ancient repaint in pale blue, but retains its original leather interior, including both the seats and door panels, as well as the original headliner and chrome 'GB' lettering on the rear deck. It is still equipped with Marchal headlights and Borrani wire wheels as-original, as well as a Radiomobile radio, Smiths clock and oil temperature gauge, and tinted Plexiglass sun visors. Charming touches include a period-correct Sebring mirror and accessory teardrop racing mirrors; the car does have a spare tire as well. At the time of cataloging the odometer recorded 83,231 miles.

Following its acquisition, the car was serviced, with its engine freshened and brakes rebuilt, but the remainder of the mechanical components left original. In running and driving order, it can be maintained in its current uniquely patinated style, as a very special automobile that is sure to be the hit of any show it attends.