1954 Aston Martin DB2/4: Exceptional Classic

1954 Aston Martin DB2/4: Exceptional Classic

Engine Inline 6 Horsepower 140 BHP (103.04 KW) @ 5000 RPMTorque 175 Ft-Lbs (237 NM) @ 3000 RPM Engine Location Front Drive Type RWDWeight 2630 lbs | 1192.948 kg Transmission 4-step manual

The DB2/4 was an important milestone in the history of Aston Martin, as it marked the company’s return to success after the challenges of the post-war period. The car’s innovative design, advanced features, and impressive performance helped establish the brand as a leading producer of high-end luxury sports vehicles, and set the stage for the company’s continued growth and success in the years that followed.

Source: Bring A Trailer

David Brown’s acquisition of Aston Martin and his subsequent investment and leadership helped the company turn a new page and become a leading luxury sports vehicle brand. The release of iconic models such as the DB2/4, DB4, and DB5, under Brown’s ownership, solidified Aston Martin’s position in the market and cemented its reputation for producing high-quality, stylish, and performance-driven automobiles. Brown’s vision and leadership continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans of the brand and enthusiasts of classic automobiles, and the legacy he created for Aston Martin remains strong to this day.

The origins

Source: Secret Classic

The post-war period saw a resurgence in the British automotive industry, with new models being released. David Brown acquired Aston Martin in 1947, merging it with the Lagonda brand. Eventually, Brown’s leadership marked the beginning of the golden age for the company. After the successful DB2, the DB2/4 became the next popular GT-class roadster of the brand. The “4” in its name indicated that it was a four-seater, while the racing two-seater was known as the DB3.

The DB2/4 was a major upgrade from the previous automobile, as it became more practical and versatile, very popular among Aston Martin fans. Under David Brown’s leadership, the company began its golden age, producing a series of dynamic roadsters with Brown’s initials. The DB2/4 became one of the most popular Aston Martin models, establishing the brand as a leader in the luxury and sports vehicle market.

The 1954 model year

Source: Richmonds

The 1954 DB2/4 featured a sleek, aerodynamic body with a long hood, short overhangs, and distinctive fenders. The automobile had a sporty yet elegant look that was typical of the brand’s design ethos at the time. The biggest difference from the first release was the body style. The 1953 version was offered as a 2-seater sports car, while the 1954 one added a 2+2 seating configuration, making it a more practical and versatile automobile.  The 1954 edition also featured a revised chassis that was stronger and more rigid than the previous version, improving handling and stability. In 1954, the automobiles received a 2.6-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, compared to the 2.0-liter unit of the earlier version. Consequently, the larger engine offered more power and improved performance. In addition, the 1954 release had improved braking, with larger disc brakes added to the front wheels. It also received updated styling, with minor cosmetic changes made to the body and interior. Inside, the 1954 edition was luxurious and sophisticated, featuring high-quality materials and attention to detail. Thus, the seats were made of leather and offered comfortable, supportive seating for long drives. The dashboard was designed with a clean and elegant layout, featuring a wood veneer finish and clear instrumentation. In addition, the 2+2 seating configuration provided additional interior space and versatility, making it a practical car for both solo drivers and families. These changes improved the overall functionality and performance of the car, making it a more capable and versatile vehicle compared to the earlier release. 

Did you know?

Source: Classic Digest

This vehicle was highly sought after by both European and American buyers. In 1954,  several automobiles were sent to Italy for exclusive custom bodies by various design studios. Bertone received three chassis, and the designer Giovanni Michelotti created two convertibles and one coupe. One of Bertone’s shareholders, American entrepreneur Stanley Arnolt, was involved in the import of Italian-style cars to the United States. Thus, he sold one of the convertibles to the Chicago-based company Brown & Bigelow, which gave the automobile as a Christmas present to their director, Charles A. Ward. The other convertible was reportedly owned by Formula 1 driver Innes Ireland. These custom-bodied DB2/4s were highly prized and are considered among the rarest and most sought-after models today.

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1954 Aston Martin DB2/4: Exceptional Classic

Engine Inline 6 Horsepower 140 BHP (103.04 KW) @ 5000 RPMTorque 175 Ft-Lbs (237 NM) @ 3000 RPM Engine Location Front Drive Type RWDWeight 2630 lbs | 1192.948 kg Transmission 4-step manual

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