Aston Martin DB4 Series V Vantage
The Aston Martin DB4 Series V Vantage represented the final and most potent development of the DB4, the car that established Aston Martin as a manufacturer of world-class grand touring automobiles. Produced during the last year of DB4 production, the Series V Vantage combined the mature chassis with the most powerful version of the Tadek Marek-designed twin-cam engine.
The 3.7-litre inline-six in Vantage specification produced 266 brake horsepower at 5750 rpm, a significant increase over the standard car's 240 bhp. This was achieved through triple SU HD8 carburetors replacing the standard twin SU setup, higher-lift camshafts, modified valve timing, and a revised exhaust system. The result was performance that could embarrass Ferrari 250 GTs of the same era.
The body was constructed using the Superleggera method developed by Touring of Milan, with thin aluminum panels hand-formed over a framework of small-diameter steel tubes. This technique produced a body of exceptional beauty and remarkably light weight, though it required careful maintenance to prevent corrosion at the junctions between aluminum and steel.
The Series V represented the most refined incarnation of the DB4, incorporating all the improvements made during the car's five-series production run. These included a higher roofline for better headroom, revised rear bodywork, improved interior ventilation, and refinements to the suspension geometry. The Vantage specification added performance to this already excellent base.
Driving the DB4 Vantage was an experience of considerable intensity. The engine responded eagerly to throttle inputs, pulling strongly through the rev range with a glorious exhaust note. The David Brown four-speed gearbox was precise and satisfying, if not quite as slick as contemporary Ferrari units. Handling was engaging, with the front-engine rear-drive layout providing predictable and adjustable balance.
The interior was pure Aston Martin, with hand-stitched Connolly leather, a walnut dashboard, comprehensive Smiths instrumentation, and a level of craftsmanship that justified the car's premium price. The seats were supportive and comfortable for long distances, reflecting the car's true grand touring character.
Of the 1,110 DB4s produced across all series, the Vantage-specification cars numbered approximately 136. This rarity, combined with the car's beauty and the Vantage's additional performance, has made it one of the most sought-after DB4 variants. It stands as the direct predecessor to the DB5, arguably the most famous Aston Martin of all.
Superleggera construction requires careful inspection for corrosion at the junction of aluminum panels and steel tube framework. The Tadek Marek engine is expensive to rebuild; verify condition through compression and leak-down tests. Vantage specification should be verified through factory records and engine stampings. The David Brown gearbox is durable but synchromesh wear is common. Check for chassis repairs from racing use. Original-specification cars with matching numbers command significant premiums over restored or modified examples.
The DB4 was produced in five distinct series from 1958 to 1963 at Newport Pagnell. Total DB4 production was 1,110 units. Vantage specification was offered throughout but was most refined in Series V form. The Superleggera construction was licensed from Touring of Milan. The DB4 was also offered in GT and GT Zagato variants, which were distinct models.