1972 Aston Martin V8 Series 2 Sports Saloon, Registration no. TYY 529L Chassis no. V810565RCA Engine no. V/540/1438

Odometer reading: TBC
MOT: Exempt

*The 65th Series 2 V8 produced
*Automatic transmission
*In dry storage for 30-plus years
*Offered for re-commissioning

Although always intended to house the new Tadek Marek-designed V8, the DBS first appeared with the 4.0-litre six of the concurrently produced DB6. Styled in-house by Bill Towns, the four-seater DBS employed a platform-type chassis with independent suspension all round: wishbone and coil-spring at the front, De Dion with Watts linkage at the rear. Bigger and more luxuriously appointed than the DB6, the heavier DBS disappointed some by virtue of its slightly reduced performance, but there were no complaints when the V8 arrived in 1969. With an estimated 345bhp available from its 5,340cc, fuel-injected, four-cam motor, the DBS V8 could reach 100mph in under 14 seconds, running on to a top speed of 160mph - a staggering performance in those days and one which fully justified the claim that it was the fastest production car in the world. Even in automatic transmission form the V8 could reach 100mph in around 15 seconds and better 145mph flat-out.
In 1972 the acquisition of Aston Martin by Company Developments brought with it a change of name for the V8-engined cars: out went DBS V8, in came AM V8. This new Series 2 was readily distinguishable by its restyled front that now featured two instead of four headlamps and recalled the looks of the earlier DB six-cylinder cars. Electronic ignition and air conditioning were now standard.
The 65th Series 2 V8 produced, '10565' was previously registered '2 BLW' (1983) and has been in dry storage for the last 30-plus years (the engine has not been turned over). The car is offered for re-commissioning and sold strictly as viewed.

Vendor Score Total: 42 /100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 12 /25
Body Work: 2
Paint: 2
Glass: 3
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 2

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 8 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 2
Axles: 2
Suspension: 2
Brakes: 2

INTERIOR TOTAL: 8 /20
Seats: 2
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 2
Headlining: 2
Trim: 2

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 4 /10
Main components: 2
Ancillary components: 2

ENGINE TOTAL: 8 /20
Starting: 2
Running: 2
Under Bonnet: 2
Mechanical components: 2

Car History File: 2