Six decades after launchAston Martin DB5 continues to be one of the most iconic and recognizable cars in the world: it is now posing alongside the latest addition to the DB family, the DB12, to celebrate this historic anniversary.

“The David Brown era gave us so many great Aston Martins, but none are more recognisable, revered and desired than the DB5. It laid the foundations of our identity as a British luxury brand synonymous with style, performance and exclusivity. It’s only fitting that as we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we look back and reflect on the incredible role this car has played in our rich 110-year heritage. We’re incredibly proud to see the DB pedigree continue today with the critically acclaimed DB12, which, like those before it, is a celebration of everything we love about hand-built British sports cars. hand, with the new implementation of the latest technologies and the highest level of productivity”– said Lawrence Stroll, executive chairman of Aston Martin.

Aston Martin DB5: presentation in Frankfurt in 1963

Following the successful launch of the DB4 in 1958, Aston Martin updated the sports car family with the DB5, introduced at Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1963. This new model has several design, engineering and equipment improvements over its predecessor, as well as a major mechanical upgrade that offers even more power.

Indeed, the DB5 presented in Germany had a new version six-cylinder in-line engine 3.7 liter DB4, redesigned with double camshaft and increased displacement to 4.0 litersfor maximum power 286 horsepower, accelerating the model to more than 240 km/h. According to an Aston Martin brochure of the time: “The DB5 is the fastest 4-seater GT in the world”.

There were also numerous improvements such as electric windows, air conditioning (optional) and even a bodywork made by the Italians at Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera.

International star

Of course, his main role in the films of the series James Bond allowed the Aston Martin DB5 to become an iconic model, but Sean Connery wasn’t the only celebrity seen behind the wheel of this coveted sports model. Indeed, many personalities of the time bought DB5s such as Paul McCartney and George Harrison of the Beatles, Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones, Peter Sellers, Robert Plant, Jay Kay, Elle McPherson and Ralph Lauren.

In general only 887 copies of the DB5 Coupé, 123 DB5 Cabriolet and 12 DB5 Shooting Brake It was made to order, making it a particularly rare model even for the period. Indeed, in 1963 British car production exceeded 1.8 million cars.

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