The Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Sport Saloon, a car that elegantly combines high-performance engineering with sophisticated luxury, remains one of the most iconic models in automotive history. When introduced in 1965, the DB6 was designed to elevate the Aston Martin legacy, with a more refined and luxurious approach than its predecessor, the DB5. But it was the Vantage specification that truly set the DB6 apart, offering a more powerful engine, improved handling, and greater overall performance. In this article, we’ll explore the history, engineering marvels, design evolution, and enduring legacy of the 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Sport Saloon—an automotive masterpiece that still turns heads today.

The Design Evolution: A Step Above the DB5

While the DB6 was visually similar to its predecessor, the DB5, it featured several notable improvements that enhanced both its appearance and functionality. The most significant change was the increase in wheelbase by 3.75 inches, providing rear passengers with more legroom and a more comfortable ride. The roofline was also raised slightly to allow for better headroom, particularly important for taller drivers.

Aesthetic improvements included the introduction of the “Kamm” tail, which had been pioneered on the racing cars of Aston Martin’s Project 212, 214, and 215. This aerodynamic design reduced drag while increasing high-speed stability, making the DB6 even more of a grand tourer. These changes not only improved the car’s performance but also enhanced its elegance, making it the ideal luxury vehicle for road enthusiasts who appreciated both beauty and precision.

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Watch this video to see the 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage in action and learn about its classic features!

Powertrain and Performance: Under the Hood

The DB6 Vantage was engineered with performance in mind, with a focus on making it the ultimate grand tourer of its era. The heart of the DB6 was its 4.0-liter inline-six engine, which was equipped with triple SU carburetors and, in the Vantage specification, achieved an impressive 325 horsepower. This engine allowed the car to reach a top speed of 148mph, a significant increase over the DB5’s 143mph. The car’s acceleration was equally impressive, with a quarter-mile time of just 14.5 seconds, the fastest ever recorded by Autocar magazine for a four-seater vehicle at the time.

The DB6 also featured the ZF five-speed manual gearbox, which was retained from the previous model, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. The addition of driver-adjustable damping, known as ‘Selectaride,’ further enhanced the car’s handling, offering greater comfort without sacrificing control. For the first time, power-assisted steering was available as an optional feature, providing improved ease of handling, especially at low speeds.

Key Features and Innovations

The 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage was a car designed for the discerning enthusiast, and its features reflected this commitment to luxury and performance. Standard equipment included the power-assisted steering, which made driving the powerful Vantage engine effortless, while the ‘Selectaride’ adjustable damping system allowed drivers to choose their preferred ride quality, making long journeys comfortable and dynamic.

Notably, the DB6 Vantage was also equipped with a range of luxury amenities that set it apart from competitors. Chrome wire wheels were standard, adding a touch of classic sophistication, while the heated rear window ensured comfort in colder weather. Additionally, the DB6 was fitted with a power-operated aerial, and the car’s dual Marchal fog lamps provided better visibility in difficult driving conditions. These thoughtful additions made the DB6 Vantage a true symbol of grand touring excellence.

The DB6 Vantage’s Impact on the Luxury Sports Car Market

When it was introduced, the DB6 Vantage entered an automotive landscape dominated by luxury cars from brands like Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Jaguar. However, the DB6 Vantage quickly stood out as a formidable competitor, offering the performance and handling of a sports car combined with the comfort and opulence of a luxury vehicle.

A key factor in the DB6 Vantage’s success was its ability to provide the best of both worlds. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the DB6 was a car that could easily transition from a comfortable, luxurious drive to an exhilarating performance car when the situation called for it. As the luxury sports car market continued to evolve, the DB6 Vantage cemented Aston Martin’s reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance, world-class vehicles.

Production Numbers and Rarity

The Aston Martin DB6 Vantage was a rare car, with only 1,327 saloon units produced. Of these, just 268 were the Vantage specification, making the model even rarer and highly desirable among collectors. In addition to the saloon models, a select few were produced as shooting brakes and convertibles by Harold Radford, adding another layer of exclusivity to the DB6 lineup.

The DB6 Vantage’s limited production and exceptional performance make it a prized asset in the world of classic cars. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, owning a DB6 Vantage represents an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, a car that exemplifies the best of British engineering and design.

Historical Ownership and Notable Features of the Featured Model

One of the most intriguing aspects of the DB6 Vantage’s history is the ownership it has seen over the years. The particular DB6 Vantage featured here, chassis DB6/2636/R, was originally owned by Richard ‘Dick’ Robinson, a horticulturist who made significant contributions to the Royal Horticultural Society. Mr. Robinson’s ownership of the car adds a unique historical dimension to the vehicle, as it was part of his efforts to transform Hyde Hall, his estate, into one of the most iconic gardens in the UK.

The car has since been restored and brought back to its original specifications, retaining much of its original Charcoal Grey paint and Natural Connolly leather interior. Today, the car serves as a testament to both its engineering excellence and its historical significance, a perfect blend of past and present.

The 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Today

Today, the 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage continues to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors. Its stunning design, combined with its remarkable performance and rarity, has ensured that it remains a sought-after vehicle in the classic car market. However, despite its timeless appeal, the DB6 Vantage requires ongoing maintenance to preserve its performance and appearance. For those fortunate enough to own one, it represents not only an investment in an iconic piece of automotive history but also the opportunity to enjoy a driving experience that is as thrilling today as it was when the car first hit the road.

The car’s popularity remains strong due to its perfect blend of elegance, performance, and craftsmanship, ensuring that it continues to be celebrated among the elite of vintage automobiles.

Explore more photos of The 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Sport Saloon

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Watch this video to follow the restoration project of the 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Superleggera and its transformation!

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage

The 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Sport Saloon is a vehicle that has stood the test of time. With its innovative design, powerful engine, and unparalleled luxury, it has become one of the most revered classic cars of all time. Whether you’re a collector or a driving enthusiast, the DB6 Vantage offers an experience that is unmatched by many modern sports cars. Its legacy as a symbol of British automotive excellence continues to inspire generations of car lovers, proving that true luxury and performance never go out of style.