This month marks 60 years of Aston Martin’s legendary and iconic DB5, a car that has transcended both the world of motoring and cinema in its long lifespan, becoming a British icon in the process. The model was a key factor in establishing Aston Martin as one of the world’s most desirable luxury brands.

It made its official public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1963 at a time when Aston Martin was still riding the wave of popularity provided by its predecessor, the DB4. Released in 1958, the DB4 had been selling well, but competition from other luxury brands meant that something new was needed to freshen things up. The DB5 featured several changes from the DB4, most notably a major engine development which helped deliver even more power. Initially well received, the car’s fame was about the receive something of a boost thanks to a certain secret agent.

For the majority of people, when you think Aston Martin DB5, you immediately think of James Bond. The DB5 first appeared in Goldfinger, being given to Bond by Q and stacked with a plethora of gadgets. It would become synonymous with James Bond, making further appearances in Thunderball, Goldeneye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, Casino Royale, Skyfall, Spectre, and, most recently, No Time to Die.

At the recent Goodwood Revival festival in Sussex, the DB5 took centre stage alongside the latest addition to the marque’s DB range, the DB12. Even as the world’s first super tourer and as beautiful as it is, it’s highly doubtful that the DB12 will ever achieve similar levels of notoriety that the DB5 has achieved.

Reflecting on the enduring appeal of the DB5 as it marks its 60th anniversary, Aston Martin’s Executive Chairman and DB5 owner, Lawrence Stroll said: “The David Brown era gave us so many great Aston Martin sports cars but none more recognisable, revered, and desired as the DB5, which laid the foundations of our identity as a British luxury brand synonymous with style, performance, and exclusivity.

“It is only right that, as it turns 60, we take a moment to look back and reflect on this car’s incredible role in our storied 110-year heritage. We’re incredibly proud that the DB lineage continues today with the critically acclaimed DB12, which like those came before it, is a celebration of all we love about British hand built sportscars, with a new injection of the latest technology and highest levels of performance.”

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Aston Martin