DB5

Often billed as the “most famous car in the world”, James Bond’s gadget laden Silver Birch DB5 in Goldfinger became many a schoolboy’s dream. Regarded by many as the most beautiful Aston Martin produced, the DB5 shares many similar traits to the DB4. However, DB5’s most substantial change occurred under the bonnet.

The engine capacity was enlarged to 4 litres by increasing the bore to 96mm. The car had three SU carburettors, as fitted to the outgoing DB4 Vantage, and also shared the latter’s fared in headlamps. Significant too was the introduction of a full synchromesh ZF 5 speed gearbox.

Enhancements

Compared to the DB4, chassis changes included the adoption of the Girling disc brakes that had only been used on the DB4GT, along with 15” wheels. Many other improvements were incorporated including electric windows and twin hydraulic brake servos.

A DB5 Vantage was offered with 3 Weber carburettors and different camshafts to offer a higher level of performance.

A Convertible was also offered which was available with an optional steel hard top. A small number of DB5s were built as ‘shooting brakes’, a sportsman’s interpretation of a modern ‘estate’ car, by coachbuilder Harold Radford.

Specifications

Price New:
£ 4,175 (Saloon), £ 4,490 (Convertible)
Engine:
DOHC Straight six, 3995 cc, 382 bhp @ 5500 rpm
280 lbs-ft @ 4500 rpm
Transmission:
5-speed ZF box or optional Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
Suspension:
Front: Telescopic shock absorbers
Rear: Double acting lever arm shock absorbers
Brakes:
Girling Twin servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
Dimensions (LxWxH):
4570 x 1676 x 1320 mm (Saloon), 4480 x 1676 x 1322 mm (Convertible)
Weight:
1468kg
Top Speed:
142 mph
0 – 60 mph:
7.1 sec

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