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LOT 104 Green
Although strictly speaking not the first post-war Aston Martin, the Frank Feeley styled DB2 was the model that set the course for the Feltham marque for the next two decades. With a relatively large capacity six-cylinder engine developing ample power, stylish bodywork in either open or closed form and a well appointed cockpit, Aston Martin hit on a successful formula that lasted until the DBS of the late 1960s. David Brown’s purchase of Aston Martin in 1947 and his subsequent acquisition of Lagonda, gave the former plenty of cash to develop an entirely new model and through the latter, gained access to a powerful 2.6 litre engine. This motor, with twin overhead camshafts and twin 1 ½ inch SU H4 carburetors, developed 105 bhp at 5,000 rpm and was capable of propelling the DB2 at indecently quick speeds. The chassis for the DB2 was designed by Claude Hill and closely followed Aston Martin’s previous practice, with independent front suspension and semi-trailing arms and a Panhard rod, plus coil springs all round. If the DB2 Coupé was a Grand Tourer capable of mixing it with the best Continental sports cars, the Drophead added a touch of glamour to the range. Perfect for the French Riviera or cruising the Pacific Coast Highway, the DB2 Drophead was also much rarer than its closed sibling - only 98 examples were made between 1950 and 1953. Road tested by Motor Sport magazine in February 1951, the DB2 Drophead managed a top speed of 109 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 12.7 seconds. The DB2 Drophead Coupé had numerous famous owners, including David Brown himself – the first example made became his personal car. Prices of David Brown-era Aston Martins continue to flourish and a DB2, admittedly a car with race provenance, sold at the recent London auction for in excess of a million dollars. Although not quite at that level yet, recent prices achieved for DB2 Dropheads show strong appreciation as well and they make great events cars. With a great documented history, this lovely Aston Martin was first registered as NGO-633 on October 21, 1952 and painted Moonbeam Grey with blue upholstery and a grey hood. According to the original specification sheet, the car was brought up to Vantage specification by the factory on April 27, 1953. The Aston Martin was brought to Australia by Kingsley R.Blunsden of Hunters Hill, New South Wales in the 1970s, then passed to Robert J.Olsen, an American based in Melbourne at the time, in March 1987. Olsen instigated a rebuild that was ultimately completed by a well known Melbourne Aston Martin collector. To be sold with a detailed history and receipts file, a DB2 instruction book and even the original UK number plate. Sold without registration
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