For Sale: 1965 Aston Martin DB5 in Huntington Station, New York

- Peony Red and perfectly complemented by tan Connolly leather upholstery with matching Everflex convertible top and camel Wilton wool carpets. 5-speed ZF manual gearbox, Matching numbers

The high-performance, rare Vantage-specification DB5 did not make its first appearance until September 1964. The Aston Martin sales brochure for the DB5 Vantage quoted power output at 325 bhp at 5,750 rpm, some 40 bhp more than the standard engine, a vast increase. The Vantage upgrades further included flow-tuned intake manifolds proving a "ram" effect, the cylinder head featured extra-large ports, valve timing was modified, and ignition timing was advanced for extra power and a flatter torque curve. A vacuum reservoir was also added to the power-assisted brake system. As expected, the DB5's performance was sharpened considerably in Vantage tune, particularly with zero-to-60 times dropping to just 6.5 seconds.

The example featured here, is one of the seven DB5 Vantage Convertibles originally produced by the factory. Completed on April 1, 1965, this matching numbers, factory Vantage convertible was destined for the home market as a right drive example dispatched five days later to its selling dealer J. Blake and Company Limited.

The original owner of this DB5C was Mr. J.V.R. Bullough was an esteemed member of the Aston Martin Owners Club. Although Mr. Bullough clearly had superb taste and a desire for additional horse power, it would be presumed he was not the tallest of gentleman as he specified two unusual, additional items. The first was a two-inch clutch-pedal extension and second, additional padding to the front-seat squabs. The car's next owner was Mr. T.F. Kennel of Buckinghamshire, followed by another AMOC member, Mr. J. Denoyer.
Shortly after its importation to the U.S., by another AMOC member, the DB5C received a comprehensive restoration by experienced Aston Martin restorers Kent Bain's Automotive Restorations of Stratford, Connecticut, which was completed to concours standards in 2005, including a professional conversion to left-hand drive. All restorative work was fully documented and restoration invoices total over $200,000. Since restoration, just under 2,000 miles have been traveled, and the DB5 has been properly and regularly maintained for driving pleasure.

This wonderful and rare convertible example embarked on a highly successful post-restoration show career, winning a Class Award at its first showing at the AMOC Lime Rock Classic in Connecticut. Other show entries included the 2007 Gold Coast Concours at Glen Cove, New York, followed by the Amelia Island and Greenwich Concours d'Elegance in 2009, the Fairfield Concours in 2010 and most recently the Cavallino Mar-A-Lago Concours, where it received a class award.

The DB5C is complete with a jack, a knock-off hammer, owners handbook and a tool roll, plus a copy of an impressive original factory sales brochure. Accompanied also by its British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, a copy of the factory build sheet, including early Aston Martin Works Service entries, and restoration invoices.