Aston Martin International Le Mans
The Aston Martin International (1929-1932) and its more highly developed Le Mans variant represent the foundation of Aston Martin's racing heritage. These small, light, and impeccably engineered sports cars established Aston Martin's association with Le Mans that would culminate decades later in the marque's outright victory in 1959.
The International was designed by A.C. Bertelli, who was both the company's chief engineer and its most successful racing driver. The car featured a 1.5-litre overhead-camshaft four-cylinder engine that was remarkably advanced for its modest displacement. With twin SU carburetors and careful tuning, the engine produced approximately 56 bhp in International specification and up to 70 bhp in Le Mans trim — modest by later standards but impressive for a 1.5-litre engine in 1929.
The Le Mans variant, named after the car's competition successes at the 24 Hours race, featured a higher-compression engine, a close-ratio gearbox, and lightened bodywork. These cars were built specifically for competition, though they retained full road equipment and could be driven to and from events.
Aston Martin's Le Mans campaigns of the early 1930s were heroic affairs. The tiny 1.5-litre cars competed against machinery with engines three and four times their displacement, yet consistently achieved class victories and respectable overall finishes through reliability, careful preparation, and the sheer determination of their drivers. The team finish at the 1931 Le Mans — where Aston Martins took the Rudge-Whitworth Biennial Cup for the best team performance over two consecutive years — was one of the great achievements in the race's history.
The International's chassis was a simple but effective ladder frame with semi-elliptic leaf springs at both ends. The body, available in two-seater and four-seater forms, was typically constructed in aluminium over an ash wood frame. The construction quality was high, reflecting Bertelli's engineering standards.
Total production of the International and Le Mans models was approximately 130 units, making them rare and highly sought-after today. They are eligible for the most prestigious vintage racing events and concours d'elegance, and their racing heritage, engineering quality, and the Aston Martin name ensure strong collector demand.
These cars are the foundation stones of the Aston Martin legend — proof that even a small manufacturer with limited resources could compete at the highest level through engineering excellence and racing passion.
These are rare and valuable pre-war sports cars requiring specialist knowledge to evaluate. Verify provenance through the Aston Martin Heritage Trust and the Aston Martin Owners' Club. Racing history significantly affects value. The 1.5L engine is well-understood by specialists. Check for correct matching of chassis, engine, and body. Ash body frame condition is critical. Aluminium bodywork should be inspected for corrosion and fatigue. The crash gearbox requires skilled driving — check for worn gears and selectors. Drum brakes need regular attention. Parts availability is limited but the AMOC and specialist suppliers can source or manufacture most requirements. Le Mans-specification cars are more valuable than standard Internationals. These cars are eligible for the most prestigious events, adding to their desirability.
Designed by A.C. Bertelli. Produced 1929-1932 at Feltham. Approximately 130 units (International and Le Mans combined). Le Mans variant developed for 24 Hours racing. Class victories at Le Mans 1931 and 1932. Rudge-Whitworth Biennial Cup winners. Hand-built in small numbers.