1969 Aston Martin DB6
Wind tunnel testing played a more visible role in the DB6’s design than in any previous Aston Martin. Development revealed that the DB5’s fastback body generated rear lift at speed, leading directly to the squared-off Kammback tail with its upswept spoiler lip that became the DB6’s most distinctive visual feature.
Introduced at the 1965 London Motor Show as the DB5’s successor, the new model carried over the competition-style covered headlights but adopted a taller roofline and a less steeply raked windshield, meaningfully improving headroom for rear passengers. A broad air scoop on the hood and a pair of vents on the front fenders added to the purposeful appearance.
The wheelbase stretched 3.75 inches over the DB5, placing occupants on a 101.5-inch platform that allowed genuine four-adult accommodation. Power came from the 3,995 cc DOHC inline-six designed by engineer Tadek Marek, fed by triple SU carburetors and producing 282 bhp.
A higher-output Vantage configuration, fitted with three Weber carburetors, raised output to 325 bhp. A five-speed ZF manual was standard, with a three-speed Borg-Warner automatic on the options list. Armstrong Selectaride rear shock absorbers, adjustable from the driver’s seat, allowed compensation for varying passenger loads. Top speed approached 150 mph.
1,327 Mk I saloons were built before the revised Mk II arrived in 1969, identified by flared wheel arches and wider tires. A total of 240 Mk II saloons were produced, bringing overall DB6 saloon production to 1,567 cars.
An additional 140 DB6 Volantes were built, bringing total DB6 production across all variants to 1,707 cars.
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