1961 Aston Martin DB4 – Ex Ian Moss

This particular DB4 was first registered in August 1961 to Mr Ian Moss, a well-known Aston Martin aficionado, who worked on the factory race cars in the 1950s and went on to set up a specialist garage servicing and repairing the marque. He converted this DB4 into a sports racer and actively campaigned it for 20 years. The car was bought by the present owner – himself twice winner of the Aston Martin Racing Series – in May 2006.

Used on the road until 2008, the car then underwent a complete restoration by marque specialists Davron based in Salisbury. A picture file is available together with all the bills. The restoration commenced with strengthening and rust proofing the chassis, removing the body and taking it back to bare metal before re-spraying in Aston Martin Racing Green. All the mechanical parts have been overhauled.

The engine, originally a DB6 4.0-litre unit, is now of 4.2 litres capacity and incorporates a new crankshaft and pistons. Unleaded compatible, it breathes through Vantage-specification triple SU carburettors and features custom made stainless steel exhausts. Other noteworthy features include a new radiator, distributor, alternator, starter, up-rated oil pump, twin fuel pumps, etc and a superbly detailed engine bay.

The four-speed gearbox has been overhauled, together with the back axle, which incorporates a limited-slip differential, while the suspension and shock absorbers have been carefully set up and the brakes up-rated to DB4GT specification. Other new components include the wiring loom, hydraulic lines and cylinders, long distance safety fuel tank, fire extinguishing system, roll cage and racing seats and belts, making the car extremely safe to drive. Despite its focus on delivering superbly controlled high performance, this DB4 also boasts the modern conveniences of electric windows, a working heater and an electric radiator cooling fan, making it comfortable to drive in traffic.

Its restoration completed in March 2012, the car is currently being ‘run in’. Although lovingly prepared for the Aston Martin series, ‘900 AWE’ would make a wonderful fast road, long distance rally, sprint or track day car. One of the best-prepared racing Astons to be seen anywhere or alternatively a fast and reliable Grand Tourer, the car is offered with the aforementioned restoration records, current MoT/tax and Swansea V5 registration document.