OVERVIEW
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• Popularized by James Bond “Goldfinger”
• Limited production of only 193 left-hand drive examples
• Concours-quality restoration completed in 2023
• Electronic ignition and steering assist system
• Rare Numbers Matching Example – Heritage Certificate
• Factory build documentation and restoration invoices dating back to 2002
• Owner’s manual, tools, spare wheel/tire, hammer, jack
The 1965 Aston Martin DB5 is not just a car; it's a symbol of automotive excellence, luxury, and timeless elegance. Its significance transcends mere transportation, representing the pinnacle of British engineering and craftsmanship. With its sleek and aerodynamic design, handcrafted interior, and powerful performance, the DB5 captured the hearts of enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike from the moment it rolled off the production line.
What truly propelled the DB5 into the realm of legend, however, was its association with the iconic British spy James Bond. Featured prominently in the 1964 film "Goldfinger," the DB5 became Bond's vehicle of choice, outfitted with an array of fictional gadgets, including machine guns, an oil slick dispenser, and an ejector seat. This cinematic exposure catapulted the DB5 to international fame, solidifying its status as the quintessential Bond car and cementing its place in popular culture.
As per the factory build sheet on record, chassis number 1990/L came equipped with a Motorola radio featuring a power antenna, a heated rear windscreen, dual Britax three-point safety belts, a Fiamm horn, a fender-mounted sideview mirror, and chrome wheels adorned with Avon Turbospeed GT tires. This distinguished DB5 found its first owner in Oscar Strauss II of New York City. Oscar was a member of the Guggenheim family, who a majority served on several corporate boards and family foundations.
In the 1990s, the ownership of the Aston Martin transitioned to Kurt DelBene, a Microsoft executive who later assumed the role of the current Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Information and Technology within the US government. Recognized for his passion for rare sports and racing cars, Mr. DelBene enlisted the expertise of British car specialist Sean Johnson to undertake a cosmetic restoration on the vehicle.
After being sold to marque specialist Rocky Santiago, 1990/L found its way to a New York-based dealer, who maintained intermittent care of the vehicle over the subsequent two decades. In March 2003, the DB5 was acquired by Connecticut-based collector Stefano Bruni, who showcased the car at esteemed events such as the 2003 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance and the 2003 AMOC North America Concours at Lime Rock, Connecticut, where it garnered a class award.
Following its tenure with at least three additional owners, including a stint under the ownership of a Dubai-based shipping magnate, the Aston Martin was procured in the early 2010s by a collector situated in New England. Under his stewardship, the DB5 continued to benefit from meticulous care, with periodic expert interventions such as the installation of a Harvey Bailey suspension kit aimed at enhancing handling, alongside the fitting of a modern aluminum radiator to optimize engine cooling efficiency.
In June of 2018, the Aston Martin was acquired by a noted car collector with numerious 1st place concours awards for cars from his esteemed collection, based in the San Francisco Bay Area. The gentleman entrusted “Raffi Najjarian of The Pit Stop”, a concours winning restoration expert in the Bay Area, to do a ground up restoration of this legendary DB5. As part of the restoration process, the coachwork underwent a meticulous repaint in the iconic vintage Aston Martin racing green hue, while the interior was reupholstered in dark green leather. Extensive mechanical refurbishments were undertaken, including the rebuilding of the driveshaft assembly, brakes, suspension, carburetors, steering, and instruments. Additionally, components such as the fuel pump, water pump, oil cooler, motor mounts, and transmission mounts were replaced to ensure optimal performance. The final touches and detailing were entrusted to the esteemed specialists at Kevin Kay Restorations. Detailed invoices reveal that the comprehensive restoration amounted to over $390,000, resulting in one of the most exceptional DB5 examples to be encountered.
The Aston Martin has been thoughtfully enhanced with the addition of electronic ignition and an electronic steering assist system, enhancing its suitability for long-distance touring adventures. With these upgrades, the DB5 is poised to make a distinguished appearance at prestigious concours d’elegance events and marque gatherings.
It is important to highlight that 1990/L still retains its original matching-numbers engine, significantly enhancing the car’s authenticity and value. Presented with an owner’s manual and tools, this beautifully restored DB5 represents an exceptionally well-maintained example of Aston Martin’s most iconic model.
Upon arrival at Canepa, every collector car for sale is put through an extensive and diligent process called the “Canepa Difference.” This includes a major and comprehensive mechanical inspection where all systems are checked, serviced, and restored as needed. They also receive award-winning concours-level detailing, including a thorough cleaning of each and every surface.
