To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Monterey
event, 15 - 17 August 2019.
Estimate:
$160,000 - $200,000
- Upgraded in period to Vantage specification
- Retains its original engine, presented in its original
colors
- Accompanied by extensive history file
- Includes British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate
Introduced in 1950, the DB2 is the seminal Aston Martin model from
the famed David Brown era, as well as the most aspirational.
Renowned for its superb handling and impeccable quality, the DB2
continues to be highly prized for its purity of design, landmark
"first model" standing, and sheer rarity, as just 411 were
produced. The year after its introduction, Aston Martin began
offering a Vantage-specification engine that featured larger SU
carburetors and a higher compression ratio, allowing it to produce
a total of 125 horsepower.
Documentation shows chassis number LML/50/102 was originally
delivered via Denver Imported Motors in Colorado, though the first
owner was not recorded. Both the British Motor Industry Heritage
Trust Certificate and factory service card show the DB2 was
delivered in Post Office Red over a red-piped black interior and
that the car was uprated to Vantage specification prior to
delivery. The second owner is noted on the service card as G.S.
Toll, Esq. of Norwalk, California.
Eventually, the DB2 would make its way from the San Francisco Bay
area across the Pacific to Malaysia. It is presumed that once in
Malaysia, it was converted to right-hand drive to suit that
country's traffic laws. In the early 2000s, LML/50/102 was acquired
by a gentleman living in Kuala Lumpur, who subsequently treated the
car to a comprehensive mechanical restoration which focused on a
full engine rebuild. Following its return to the U.S., it joined an
East Coast collection, where it was extensively sorted and serviced
to make it enormously entertaining to drive.
Today this wonderful Aston DB2 presents in fine condition with tidy
and attractive cosmetics that are consistent with its highly usable
and event-ready nature. The Post Office Red paintwork has taken on
a very slight patina since its restoration yet remains quite
attractive overall. Panel fit is exemplary, and the aluminum-alloy
factory coachwork is straight. The brightwork consists primarily of
careworn but sound original pieces, with the exception of the
bumpers, which were recently refreshed. Wire wheels are painted
silver/grey and feature original and correct Aston-branded
knock-offs.
The cockpit is trimmed as original in black leather with red
piping. It presents with a wonderfully inviting character that
comes from enjoyed use, with supple leather and fine-quality
carpets and trim. The dash has been restored to a high standard and
is covered in red leather to complement the window trim and seat
piping. The wood instrument fascia has been beautifully refinished
and houses a complete array of original switch gear and dials. The
original Bluemels steering wheel was retained, full of character
and corded for extra grip during spirited driving.
Since the original matching-numbers 2.6-liter inline six was
rebuilt in 2005, it has seen limited use and continues to run well
today. A binder of receipts documents the work performed, with the
majority of the parts sourced via the classic car experts at Aston
Service Dorset. Since returning to the U.S. and while in the hands
of the most recent owner, the suspension, brakes, rear axle, wiring
looms, and numerous other details were overhauled in 2016-2017.
Presented in original colors and with its original engine, this
well-maintained DB2 is eligible and ideally suited for numerous
events worldwide, including the Mille Miglia, Le Mans Classic, and
Tour Auto. Likewise, it would be a fine choice for home-bound
rallies such as the Colorado Grand and Copperstate 1000.To view
this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please
visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo19.
