For its appearances in no fewer than eight James Bond films and for the millions of Corgi models sold, the DB5 is not only synonymous with Aston Martin itself but stands as one of the few automotive designs that is easily identifiable by those with no more than a passing interest in classic cars.

However, the DB5's appeal stretches far beyond a beautiful body and red-carpet fame. It boasted some 170 improvements over the preceding DB4, most prominently adopting the competition-style covered headlights—originally used for the DB4 GT and subsequently available on late-production DB4s—as standard. Meanwhile, a larger bore stretched the straight-six to 3,995-cc, while the triple-SU carburettors, 15-inch wheels, and Girling disc brakes were borrowed from the outgoing DB4 Vantage. Developing 282 brake horsepower, the uprated engine was usually mated to a fully synchromesh ZF five-speed transmission.

Aston Martin records that just 887 examples of the DB5 Saloon were produced between 1963 and 1965. More than six decades later, few may lay claim to as short a chain of owners as the beautifully preserved specimen offered here.

Built in right-hand-drive form and originally wearing the registration number “DBO 999C”, chassis number DB5/1727/R was delivered new to its first owner, a Mr G Richards of Port Talbot, on 27 January 1965. It was retained by its first keeper through to June 1987, at which point it was bought by the vendor. Soon after the sale, the car was re-registered with the number “DB 5”. Now, approaching 40 years later, this transferable registration number is included as part of the sale at Woodcote Park and may be retained by the new custodian.

In September 1987, chassis DB5/1727/R returned to Aston Martin Lagonda at Newport Pagnell for remedial work. As part of a mechanical refresh, per the accompanying invoices, the cylinder head was overhauled, plus the transmission, steering, suspension, and braking systems revitalised. During its visit, the DB5 was taken back to the bare metal and refinished in Dubonnet. Photographs on file indicate that the repaint was completed by April 1988. Significant efforts were also made to ensure the original interior was carefully retained.

The Aston Martin was more recently submitted to leading marque specialist RS Williams. This visit to the Surrey workshop in September 2022 included the fitment of four new Avon tyres, adjustment to the front wheel bearings and clutch, the installation of a new throttle rod, pressure testing the cooling system, steam cleaning the engine bay, and a service. The invoice totalled £13,476. In addition, the car returned to RS Williams in May 2026 for a replacement rear brake servo and heater valve, adjustments to the front wheel bearings and clutch, plus the renewal of its coolant and differential and gearbox oils, further to an MoT (invoice on file).

As one of the most recognisable shapes in automotive history, the Aston Martin DB5 is a truly special motor car in any form. Even still, this wonderfully preserved example stands proud for retaining its matching-numbers straight-six engine and—perhaps most significant of all—boasting just two UK owners throughout its life.

Wonderfully complemented by the “DB 5” registration number, further to a generous history file, workshop manual and jack, chassis DB5/1572/R would make for a superlative addition to any collector car ensemble.