Aston Martin was founded in 1913, and since its first inception has been plagued by the casualties of war. On the first go around, World War I put an untimely halt to the company’s auto production. All company assets were sold off to Sopwith Aviation. This would not be the last time that the company would have this happen. Just over 20 years later, World War II erupted, and company assets again were used for production of aircraft components. The difference was that this time the company was not sold.

Aston Martin DBR1/2

Posted on October 29, 2012 by RareCars

The Aston Martin DBR1/2 is a phenomenal car with sporting style that is exquisite in performance and design. This machine was perfected for racing excellence, and its unique heritage is apparent when you look at the design. It was built specifically for racing and included some exclusive design work and specially made parts.

The Aston Martin DBR1/2 features an in-line 6, aluminum twin spark Type RB6 engine with dual overhead cam. It is naturally aspirated with a Triple Webber 45DCO carburetor. The power capability registers in at around 254bhp at 6,250 RPM. This engine was replace for the 1957 race season with a 2922cc engine to provide better power distribution to keep up with its competitors on the track.

In addition to a lighter weight engine, the DBR1/2 features a 20 gauge Magnesium Alloy body over a tubular steel space frame. This beauty was lightened up to improve track performance, and regardless of the expanded track and wheelbase, the car weighs nearly 300 pounds less than the DB3S. The car maintained a 5 speed transaxle that distributed power and the bulk of the weight to the rear wheels.

The modifications to the DBR 1 and DBR 2 proved to be worth the efforts for Le Mans. Earlier failure in the gearbox design brought about some re-thinking to the look and feel of the auto, and it paid off ten-fold. After achieving success on the track, Aston-Martin made a critical decision to withdraw from future Le Mans competition after the 1959 race season. Who knows where future innovations could have propelled the auto racing industry. They went out on top though after achieving their race victory goals, and moved into different aspects of automotive excellence such as Grand Prix racing. All in all, it was a huge success.

Aston Martin DBR1/2 Photos

1958 Aston Martin DB Mk III Coupe

Posted on July 24, 2012 by RareCars

What makes a car an automobile a classic? Sleek curves, superb performance, and stylish elegance are among a few of the reasons. The 1958 Aston Martin DB Mk III Drophead Coupe is an example of such a car.

A steel body over a steel frame, the 1958 Aston Martin DB Mark III was not a speed horse, but the elements of her construction certainly distinguished her as a classic. Elements that made this distinction include the unique grill styling, and the inclusion of front disc brakes as standard with aluminum alfoin drums for rear braking.

In 1947 Aston Martin found itself with a new owner, Sir David Brown. This auto enthusiast took Aston Martin in a positive direction that placed in on the automotive world map. When the DB2 was introduced it featured a straight-six engine and dual overhead cam. The adaptation of a Lagonda engine helped to establish the company’s presence in the world of racing and paved the way for introduction to the consumer market. In addition, dual carburetors helped with performance improvement.

Two coupe versions of the DB III were produced, a Fixed Head Coupe and a Drophead Coupe. In all, 84 coupes sported the Drophead, while a limited 5 featured the Fixed Head. Both of these beauties are admired by auto enthusiasts. Though by many of today’s standards the DB Mark III would not be considered the top in speed performance, it did manage to go from 0 – 60 in under 10 seconds. The Coupe offers automotive excellence.

1958 Aston Martin DB Mk III Photo Gallery:

1962 Aston Martin DB4

Posted on March 13, 2012 by RareCars

With only a little over 1,200 produced, the 1962 Aston Martin DB4 stands to be one of the most popular classic sports cars ever created. From its unique exterior design to its well thought out interior, this car became the foundation for many of the classic cars made by the luxury car manufacturer.

The 1962 Aston Martin DB4 was developed and produced from the years of 1959 to 1963 with the 3.7 liter Tadek Marek 240hp engine. As for its lightweight frame and body, it was tubular and Italian designed with sleek, flowing lines. Although the factory did not distinguish at the time between the different versions of the DB4, today, owners and collectors classify the DB4s by belonging to one of the five series. Of the 1,213 cars created, there were only 70 convertibles, and of those there were 32 Vantage models. These models are appropriately known as being special due to the small amount created, and for the engine upgrade that featured a 266hp.

With a reputation that touts being the most powerful British car of its time, the 1962 Aston Martin will continue to be a famously classic sports car admired by all. Highly sought after, these sports cars make the perfect addition to a collection. Whether it is the race inspired interior, the super light construction, or the modern Italian styling, the British manufacturer Aston Martin truly captured the essence of what a car could really do and be with a bit of passion and creativity.