Aston Martin DB5 Celebrates Its 60th Anniversary
by AutoExpert | 13 September, 2023
Happy 60th birthday to the iconic Aston Martin DB5! Back in 1963, when it first graced the roads, it must have been a true sensation. To celebrate this milestone, Aston Martin organized a photoshoot featuring the DB5's modern counterpart, the DB12.
The DB5 that wowed the crowd at the 1963 IAA had a newly developed 4.0-liter straight-six engine, which was essentially an upgraded version of the 3.7-liter engine in the DB4 from 1958.
Aston Martin DB5 packed quite a punch with 282 horsepower. Now, in 2023, the new DB12 takes things to a whole new level with its twin-turbo V8 4.0-liter engine from AMG, delivering a whopping 671 horsepower. Back in its prime, the DB5 could hit a top speed of over 150 mph—quite a feat for its time. Aston Martin produced a total of 887 saloons, 123 convertibles, and even 12 coachbuilt shooting brakes.
Interestingly, it became a favorite among celebrities. Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Mick Jagger, Robert Plant, Peter Sellers, Jay Kay, and Ralph Lauren all owned one. It's surprising that the DB6 replaced the DB5 just two years after its debut at the 1965 London Motor Show.
Although it continued the legacy of design by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera, it was a bit less exclusive, with 1,788 units rolling off the production line until it came to an end in 1970. Quite a remarkable journey for this iconic car!
