GuidesWhy the Aston Martin DB5 is a classic car

March 27, 2024
The Aston Martin DB5 is nothing short of classic car royalty – not just because it’s been one of the most celebrated James Bond cars ever – but also because only 1,059 models rolled off the assembly line between 1963 and 1965. This makes it a relatively rare and exclusive car, so to speak.
This limited availability and timeless classic appeal cemented its popularity in the automotive world, and even to this day, the desire to own the DB5 is higher than ever among owners, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.

 

Why the DB5 will forever remain a classic car legend

 

A symbol of true British heritage

While American car manufacturers have been known throughout history for having a strong inclination towards performance, the Germans have always focused on precision and technical excellence – whereas Japanese car manufacturers have never disappointed in terms of reliability and efficiency throughout the years.

When it comes to British engineering, however, that has always remained synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Over the years, British manufacturers, and particularly Aston Martin, have been celebrated for their highly pragmatic approach to design, a commitment to producing some of the highest quality automotive products, and engineering that might rival the precision of modern laser-guided weaponry.

 

Call us now on 0330 174 8540 for a no obligation discussion
WhatsApp on 07535 812 049

 

As it stands, the Aston Martin DB5 is one of the undisputed best examples of all of the above, highlighting Britain’s drive and passion for exceptional automotive craftsmanship.

Just one look at the DB5 and you’ll find that every line, curve, and contour oozes with artistic skill and craftsmanship – from the engine tuning to the optimised suspension systems to the overall visual aesthetic experience and the ultra-refined driving experience. It’s a driver’s dream come true, simply put.

Also a symbol of Aston Martin’s heritage

Since its inception in 1913, Aston Martin has enjoyed a reputation for crafting absolutely exquisite vehicles which blend the best of British craftsmanship, performance, style, elegance, and luxury.

The British marque has always been consistent with their high-performance luxury and sports vehicles, leaving a legacy of sports car and prestige car icons that captivate and allure automotive enthusiasts across the world.

Introduced in 1963, the DB5 remains a significant milestone in the British manufacturer’s rich history. It truly exemplified Aston Martin’s commitment to producing grand tourers which boasted the perfect mix of power, refinement, and style. In fact, the DB5 set the foundation for subsequent models like the Vanquish, Vantage, DB11 and DBS Superleggera – all of which showcase the manufacturer’s expertise in building some of the most high-end and technologically-savvy vehicles in the world.

It’s James Bond’s car, after all

Not only did the DB5 became an instant icon across the world since its debut, it also came to be associated with secret agent Bond’s suave, calculating, and sophisticated character from the moment it made its silver screen debut in 1964’s Goldfinger.

This was both a love letter to the movie audience and car enthusiasts everywhere, with Bond and the DB5 a match made in heaven. The DB5 encapsulates Bond’s personality and character almost too perfectly: elegance, style, and refined taste.

It’s understated yet very powerful presence in the Bond movies complements the secret agent’s overall persona and, of course, his preference for the rarer and finer things in life.

 

Call us now on 0330 174 8540 for a no obligation discussion
WhatsApp on 07535 812 049

 

The DB5 shaped Bond cars in future movies

Since the first Bond movie’s debut in 1963, the franchise has captivated and enthralled audiences all over the world, with 27 films to its roster. Each iteration has showcased incredibly captured car chase scenes, and while the DB5 was initially the “go to” car for Bond, it set the tone for Aston Martin’s latter models to be showcased in the movies – such as the Aston Martin V8 and Volante in The Living Daylights, the V12 Vanquish in Die Another Day, and the DBS in Casino Royale.

It’s a long list of movies, and nearly all of them have been dominated by James Bond’s car of choice – all inspired by the Aston Martin DB5, which interestingly, also inspired the choice of weapons and other “useful systems” for future Bond cars to help the secret agent fend off villains!

It had one of the most powerful engines at the time

If we could give a textbook definition of the ideal mix of power and luxury in the world of cars from the 1960s – we’d handpick the DB5!

Its whopping 4-litre engine (that’s a lot of power, considering the 1960s!) was inherited from the Lagonda Rapide which had proven its mettle at the Le Mans 24 hour race, made famous by the DP212 ‘Project” cars.

The chain-driven double overhead camshafts which powered the valves through case-hardened bucket tappets, indeed made a handsome and full-looking bonnet, especially characterised by the large and open, aggressive-looking front grill.

The DB5’s original engine configuration was a 3.7 litre 285bhp straight six engine, giving the car a top speed of 142 mph. However, the Vantage specification made available in late 1964 jacked the numbers up to 325bhp for a top speed of 150 mph, which you have to understand, was considered blazing fast for the 1960s.

This effectively made the DB5 the world’s fastest four-seater non-race car, even if it meant inadequate leg room for fully grown adults in the back seats!

Even with the original engine configuration, the DB5 was found to be the third-fastest car Motor magazine had tested at the time and second fastest to accelerate to 100 mph.

 

Call us now on 0330 174 8540 for a no obligation discussion
WhatsApp on 07535 812 049

 

Closing thoughts

In late 2023, the Aston Martin DB5 turned 60 years old and when you’ve been in the public eye for that long, it might be easy to forgive the idea of a nip and tuck to retain those impossibly good looks over the years!

Turning 60 is simply another chance for this legendary classic car to dominate the hearts of car lovers for, perhaps, a few more decades, and also enjoy the powerful, hypnotic hold it has over them across the world.

If you’re in the market hunting for a luxury or prestige vehicle, we can help you get started with some of the most enticing car financing packages: 0330 174 8540.

We’re here to help

 

Liber Financial can help you determine eligibility and make the entire process really easy for you.
Call us now to explore a variety of car financing options: 0330 174 8540
WhatsApp on 07535 812 049