1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 3.0-Litre Drophead Coup: One of Just 46 Export-Model DB2/4 Dropheads
The need to widen the appeal of the already-successful DB2 resulted in the launch in October 1953 of the 2+2 DB2/4. Modifications to the rear of the chassis plus a reduction in fuel tank capacity from 19 to 17 gallons liberated sufficient space within the existing design for two child-sized occasional rear seats. Alternatively, the rear seat backs could be folded down, thus creating a load-carrying platform that more than doubled the luggage space, the latter being accessed via a hatchback rear door - one of this now-common feature's earliest applications. In addition, a raised roofline, one-piece windscreen, larger bumpers and other detail styling changes differentiated the newcomer from its predecessor. Otherwise, the DB2/4 remained much the same as the DB2, employing the latter's rectangular-tube chassis, trailing arm independent front suspension and well-located live rear axle. Standard specification included the W O Bentley-era, 2.6-litre, 'VB6E' engine in 125bhp tune. Despite this, the redesign's inevitable weight gain was not fully compensated for until the arrival of the 3.0-litre, 140bhp engine in 1954. Equipped with latter, the DB2/4 was one of the fastest cars then built in Great Britain - with 100mph achievable in third gear and around 120mph maximum - possessing impeccable handling plus a level of comfort rare in any high-performance car.
DB2/4 production had amounted to 565 cars by the time of the Mark II's introduction in October 1955. According to the AMOC, at least 102 were dropheads, of which 46 were export models like the one offered here. Its accompanying copy guarantee form shows that this 3.0-litre 'Mark I' DB2/4, chassis number '1019', was delivered new via Peter Satori Co Ltd to first owner Michael Henry Strater of Berkeley, California, USA. The car was ordered with Ivory paintwork, subsequently changed to green, and left the factory with a red interior and matching hood. The car will require re-commissioning/restoration before further use. Accompanying documentation consists of copies of the aforementioned guarantee, old Mississippi Certificate of Title, and old Alabama registration paperwork.
Coachwork by Mulliners of Birmingham
Registration no. not registered
Chassis no. LML/1019
Engine no. VB6J/542
One of only 46 export-model DB2/4 dropheads made
Delivered new to California, USA
Dry stored for many years
Offered for restoration
Price: $325,000