I can’t imagine there are a lot of Aston Martin DB5 project cars floating around anymore. Scarcity (1,059 DB5s were produced from 1963 to 1965) and the appeal of being James Bond’s preferred car has led to few and fewer unfinished DB5s floating around, but RM Sotheby’s is offering one it describes as a “metaphorical blank canvas.” It’s a bit rough around the edges but has potential.
The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 ‘Project’ (Chassis No. DB5/1736/R) has a matching-number chassis and engine (Engine No. 400/1724) and is documented with a certificate from the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust (BMIHT). It’s a right-hand drive DB5 featuring an automatic transmission with a 3.54:1 rear axle ratio and is available at Sotheby’s Villa Erba auction in Lake Como, Italy on Saturday, May 20, 2023.
“First finished in Sierra Blue over an interior trimmed in grey, the Aston Martin was despatched nearly a month later to the London dealership, Brooklands of Bond Street,” the listing states. “While the DB5’s early history is largely unknown, by November 1989 the car was acquired by an enthusiast based in Georgia, USA. This owner retained possession for at least 16 years, as is reflected by registrations available to view on file. By this time, the car was refinished in the current configuration of Midnight Blue with a beige interior.
“In more recent years the Aston Martin has been kept in storage by its consigning owner, an esteemed car collector. For the marque connoisseur interested in overseeing a full DB5 refurbishment, this car presents an enticing opportunity. Poised to make the transition from long-term storage to touring enjoyment—or potentially even concours presentation—this Aston Martin should appeal to any enthusiast seeking to put their own stamp on a quality DB5 restoration.”
No estimated sale price has been put forth by Sotheby’s, but a similar 1964 DB5 project car (DB5/1678/R) was sold by the online auction platform Collecting Cars for $502,000 (£416,900) on February 11, 2022.
Source: www.classiccars.com