1963 Aston Martin DB5 Sports Saloon

The Aston Martin DB5 (1963-1965) is the most famous Aston Martin, immortalised as James Bond's car in Goldfinger. The 4.0-litre twin-cam six produced 282hp. Around 1,021 built including Convertibles and Shooting Brakes. The DB5 represents the pinnacle of 1960s grand touring. Values range from £500k for project cars to over £1m for excellent examples, with Bond connection cars fetching premiums.

Engine: Tadek Marek six generally robust but specialist knowledge required. Carburettors need regular attention. Oil leaks common. Cooling system critical in summer. Transmission: ZF manual or Borg-Warner auto - both need specialist service. Electrics: Lucas components - rewiring often beneficial. Body: Superleggera construction means aluminium panels over steel frame - check for corrosion at junction points, repairs expensive. Chrome: Expensive to restore. Trim: Interior trim parts very expensive. General: These are appreciating classics requiring significant maintenance budgets. Expect £20k+ annually for proper maintenance. Specialist essential.

Matching numbers, Bond car association, Full history, Recent mechanical overhaul, Original specification