The Aston Martin DB6 is a grand tourer produced by British ultra-luxury marque Aston Martin between 1965 and 1970. Serving as the successor to the DB4 and DB5, the DB6 represented the crowning achievement of the era under Aston Martin founder Sir David Brown , and is widely regarded by enthusiasts as one of the purest Aston Martins ever built.
The DB6 made its official debut in October 1965 at the London Motor Show in the UK. Positioned as a 2+2 luxury grand tourer, it placed greater emphasis on ride comfort and high-speed stability over its predecessor, making it the most refined and daily-usable DB model of its time. The DB6 was offered in two body styles: Saloon and Volante (convertible). Notably, the "Volante" nameplate was introduced for the first time on an Aston Martin convertible, derived from the Italian word for "flying".
Production of the DB6 ran from 1965 to 1970, spanning across two generations: Mk I and Mk II. A total of 1,327 units of the Mk I were built, alongside 243 units of the Mk II. Together with 140 Volante convertibles and six Shooting Brake coachbuilt editions by Harold Radford, total production of the DB6 range stood at approximately 1,788 units (with some records citing 1,967 units). At launch, the Saloon was priced at £4,998, while the convertible retailed at £4,194.
While retaining the iconic silhouette of the DB4 and DB5, the DB6 incorporated several key exterior evolutions, cementing its status as one of the most functional grand tourers of its era. The most distinctive update was the adoption of a Kamm-tail rear end. This aerodynamic profile not only enhanced visual appeal, but also significantly improved high-speed stability. Furthermore, the DB6 featured split front and rear bumpers and a slightly raised roofline.
In terms of dimensions, the DB6 measures 4,623 mm long, 1,676 mm wide, and 1,359 mm tall (official factory figures state 4,620 x 1,680 x 1,320 mm). Its wheelbase was extended by 95 mm over the DB5 to 2,585 mm, substantially improving rear passenger space.
Inside, the cabin is swathed in premium leather and genuine wood veneers, exuding an unmistakable British luxury ambiance. The signature five-dial instrument cluster and three-spoke steering wheel remained hallmark elements of 1960s GT motoring. The seats are trimmed in high-grade leather, with the Mk II variant receiving redesigned seating and subtly flared wheel arches.
Under the bonnet, the DB6 is powered by a 3,995 cc straight-six engine designed by Tadek Marek. The standard version came equipped with triple SU carburettors, pushing out 282 bhp. Aston Martin also offered a higher-performance Vantage engine package. With upgraded camshafts and carburettors, output was bumped to 318–325 hp. The Vantage clocked a 0–100 km/h sprint in 8.4 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 241 km/h. Power was channelled via a standard ZF 5-speed manual gearbox, while a BorgWarner 3-speed automatic gearbox was made available as an option for the first time.
The DB6 adopted an updated chassis architecture, replacing the traditional Superleggera tubular frame of the DB4/DB5 with a box-section steel platform. This engineering shift enhanced the car's torsional rigidity while keeping kerb weight in check.
Underneath, the DB6 retains a classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup. The suspension comprises a front double-wishbone and rear live-axle coil-spring layout, complete with anti-roll bars. Braking is handled by Girling four-wheel disc brakes with servo assistance. Additionally, power steering and air conditioning were introduced onto the options list.
For a luxury grand tourer, the DB6 came generously appointed for its era. The 2+2 seating configuration gained substantial rear-seat practicality thanks to the stretched wheelbase. Aston Martin also offered a suite of creature comforts on the options list, including a Webasto sunroof and an air-conditioning system.
Built during an era preceding modern automotive safety standards, the DB6's primary safety provision came from its reliable four-wheel disc brake setup. Additionally, the aerodynamic Kamm-tail rear not only lent aesthetic distinction but also reduced high-speed rear-end lift, serving as a key active safety attribute.
The DB6 marked the culmination of the classic Aston Martin DB lineage and the final chapter of the Sir David Brown era. Its flowing fastback profile and commanding proportions make it one of the most celebrated grand tourers of all time. The DB6 was also a firm favourite among royalty and celebrities alike, counting Prince Charles, Paul McCartney, and Mick Jagger among its distinguished owners.
Today, the DB6 is a highly coveted classic in the collector car market. A well-maintained DB6 commands substantial value, typically trading between USD 350,000 and USD 450,000, with concourse-condition Mk I examples fetching up to USD 680,000. Bridging Aston Martin's storied motorsport heritage with quintessential British grand touring elegance, the DB6 continues to hold an indelible place in automotive history through its timeless styling, spirited performance, and sublime long-distance touring prowess.
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