1965 Aston Martin DB5 Short Chassis Volante
- Engine
- 4.5L DOHC inline-six, Vantage spec with triple Weber 45DCOE carburettors, ~350 bhp
- Colour
- Aston Racing Green
Chassis DB5C/2301/L is the first of only 37 Short-Chassis Volantes ever produced by Aston Martin, a model born from the factory's decision to use remaining DB5 chassis as the basis for a refined open car incorporating DB6 improvements. Originally delivered in New York to British financier David Davies, the car is left-hand drive and was the first Aston Martin to carry the Volante name. A comprehensive restoration by Pennsylvania marque specialists Steel Wings included an enlarged 4.5-litre engine, period-correct Vantage upgrades, revised suspension, and a full cosmetic overhaul, leaving it in Aston Racing Green over butterscotch leather.
Ownership
- —Auction saleSold US$1,705,000
- Date unknownFactory deliveryDavid Daviespartial documentation
Delivered new from the factory in Dubonnet over black to Mr. Davies at his Park Avenue, New York address; he was later knighted and is known as a British financier and philanthropist.
- Date unknownAcquisition unknownVincent Youngpartial documentation
A prominent figure in AMOC North America and noted perfectionist; during his ownership he commissioned a comprehensive restoration at Steel Wings of Ivyland, Pennsylvania, including a color change to Aston Racing Green, engine enlargement, and suspension upgrades.
- Date unknownAcquisition unknownOrin Smithpartial documentation
Acquired the car following completion of the restoration; has used it regularly for driving and kept it as a centerpiece of his collection.
Competition
- —AMOC North AmericaAMOC North America concours and club eventsSpecial Club awards received
Car was shown at multiple AMOC North America events and concours d'elegance during Vincent Young's ownership following completion of the restoration.
Maintenance & restoration
- —RestorationSteel Wings
Full comprehensive restoration carried out by Steel Wings, encompassing a complete cosmetic overhaul — exterior refinished in Aston Racing Green, interior retrimmed in butterscotch tan leather — alongside a total mechanical rebuild.
Commissioned by owner Vincent Young. Steel Wings is based in Ivyland, Pennsylvania, and specialises in Aston Martin vehicles.
- —Engine rebuildSteel Wings
The original inline-six was overbored from 4.0 to 4.5 litres with new pistons and revised camshafts, upgraded to exceed factory Vantage specification with triple Weber twin-choke carburettors fitted.
Work overseen by Steel Wings principal Jon Clerk, an established engine builder; goal was increased power without sacrificing everyday driveability.
- —ModificationSteel Wings
Original ZF five-speed gearbox replaced with a Tremec five-speed unit; suspension upgraded with revised spring rates, Koni dampers, and a heavier front anti-roll bar; period-look modern air conditioning and Sony radio installed.
Steel Wings supplied their own proven suspension kit as part of the package; the gearbox swap is one they routinely recommend for this model.
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