The Aston Martin DB4 was the first model to be built in the company’s Newport Pagnell factory in Buckinghamshire, England.
Aston Martins’ model DB4 was manufactured from 1958 until 1963. In 1956 the company started working on the DB4 parallel with the DB mark III model. Technically, this was the improved model with a completely new design.
Major developers of the Aston Martin DB4 were general Manager John Wyer, engine Designer Tadek Marek and chassis designer Harold Beach.
Design of the DB4 was innovative and every major component was completely new. Carrozzeria Touring in Milan designed the lightweight body using their superleggera construction. Aluminum panels were fixed to tubular frame built onto a substantial platform chassis.
Under the hood the new Aston had Tadek Marek’s new 3.7 liter, six-cylinder twin overhead camshaft, all alloy engine. The engines first use came in 1956 and was used for racing purposes in the DBR2 in 1957.
Aston Martin DB4 premiered at the 1958 London Motor Show, sharing a stand with the DB Mark III which was produced for almost a year afterwards.
In the following years, the DB4’s design was the base for new Aston Martin models. Some of them included the DB4 GT Zagato, the Lagonda Rapide 4-door saloon, and its successor the Aston Martin DB5.
The DB4 was the first Aston Martin capable of 0-100-0 mph in under 30 seconds. The new model could reach the 100 mph barrier in 21 seconds.
Production of the DB4 announced a new era for Aston Martin, allowing the company to keep pace with other sports car manufacturers.
At the 1961 London Motor Show, a DB4 convertible was announced. Throughout its production life, the DB4 range was gradually developed, adding a GT version and some significant model year changes (often referred to as series 2, 3, 4 and 5) before finally being replaced by the DB5.
Between 1958 and 1963 1,100 DB4s’ and 100 DB4GT/Zagato were manufactured. On today oldtimers market the price for a fully restored example can go over $750.000.
DB4 Technical specification:
- Engine:DOHC Straight six, 3670 cc, 240 bhp @ 5000 rpm 240 lbs-ft @ 4200 rpm
- Transmission:4-speed manual with optional overdrive or optional Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
- Suspension: Front: Telescopic shock absorbers Rear: Lever arm shock absorbers
- Brakes:Dunlop Servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
- Dimensions (LxWxH):4480 x 1676 x 1321 mm (Saloon), 4480 x 1676 x 1323 mm (Convertible)
- Weight:1308 kg
- Top Speed:140 mph
- 0 – 60 mph:9 sec
