For any fans of James Bond, the Aston Martin DB5 is the epitome of an icon and perhaps even transcends the film world in general. Since making its debut in 1964’s Goldfinger it has appeared sporadically throughout the series, most recently in 2021’s No Time to Die. It is rare to find too many examples for sale in the UK, but Hilton & Moss are offering a world first, as four Aston Martin DB5s will be available to buy from its showroom in Hertfordshire.

Potential customers can choose a DB5 finished in the iconic Silver Birch with Black Connoly leather interior which we see Bond drive on screen. The car was delivered new in September 1965 and in recent years was treated to a full restoration, with several enhancements including upgraded suspension, a Becker Mexico Retro in-car entertainment system, air-conditioning and selectable power steering. Aston Martin Works also recently rebuilt the engine to 4.2-litre factory Vantage specification at the cost of £57,000.

Another example painted in Pacific Blue with a black leather interior was delivered new in April 1965. This DB5 has been driven to the limit by its long term owner in FIA sprints, hill climbs and rallies whilst being carefully maintained by leading marque specialists. The interior was recently given a refresh, while the straight six 4.2 litre spec and 5-speed gearbox have been rebuilt to create one of the best DB5s to drive.

Alternatively, there is a sympathetically restored example in ‘California Sage’ green delivered to Brooklands of Bond Street in June 1964. It has remained in the UK ever since and has been cherished by a series of long-term owners. The 5-speed ZF-equipped car has also been treated to a full respray and comprehensive restoration in recent years.

To throw a curveball into the mix, and for any fans of a project, the company are offering a DB5 stripped back to bare metal and ready to be restored. Hilton & Moss can aid any buyer in the process as its workshops offer the chance to tailor every last detail to your exact specifications and create the DB5 you’ve always dreamed of. This blank canvas was originally delivered in July 1964 to London but made its way to the US where it spent 30 years in dry storage.

The DB5 was launched to the world in 1963 and remained in production for just two years, with 1059 examples being built at Aston’s factory in Newport Pagnell. It featured an improved 4.0-litre Tadek Marek designed in-line six engine, putting out 282bhp in standard form, and 314bhp in high-performance ‘Vantage’ specification (only 65 of these were built), thanks to the addition of Triple Weber Carburetors. A top speed of 150mph was possible for the standard version and over the years famous owners have included Sir Paul McCartney, Robert Plant, Jay Kay, Ralph Lauren and Elle Macpherson.

The cars can be viewed in person now at Hilton & Moss’ Hertfordshire showroom. Further information is available at hiltonandmoss.com

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Hilton Group