Aston Martin DB5

vs

Avanti Avanti II

UK vs USA — 1964 vs 1965

Aston Martin DB5 (1964)
Avanti Avanti II (1965)
Specifications
DB5 CoupeAvanti II 327/350 V8
Horsepower282 hp300 hp
Torque280 lb-ft330 lb-ft
Engine Size3,995 cc5,735 cc
0-60 mph8.1 sec8.0 sec
Top Speed145 mph125 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec16.0 sec
Weight3,312 lbs3,500 lbs
Wheelbase2,489 mm2,769 mm
Length4,572 mm4,877 mm
Units Produced1,023
Original MSRP$5,900$7,200
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$50,000
Collectibility10/106/10
Rarity8/107/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe offers higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 counters with quicker acceleration, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When UK engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe and 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe producing 282 hp and the 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 delivering 300 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC displacing 3,995 cc, while the Avanti Avanti II relies on a V8 OHV (Chevrolet 327/350) with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 8.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.