A DB5 purchased for less than £1,000 in the early 1970s has undergone a full restoration at Aston Martin Works, realising the dream of its owner, John Williams, a welder from Wales. At just 18, he saved for over a year to afford the car, managing to collect £900 in 1973.
After acquiring the 1965 DB5, fitted with a Vantage engine and special features, John used it as a daily vehicle for over four years, even as life took him to the Middle East. Despite offers to buy it, he kept hold of it, encouraged by his wife, Sue.
In late 2022, they chose Aston Martin Works for the restoration. After nearly three years, they returned to see their cherished DB5, one of the most coveted specifications, originally finished in Silver Birch and once owned by a community of celebrities in Surrey.
Aston Martin produced 1,022 DB5 models between 1963 and 1965, with fewer than 1,000 in the saloon body style. Among these, only 39 featured Silver Birch paint, a higher-output Vantage engine, and right-hand drive, making it a rare example of “the most famous car in the world.”
In 2023, while their car was being restored at the Works’ Panel Shop, Sue said, “Wow! She looks amazing!” John added, “It looks like an Aston Martin now. It’s great to see traditional craftsmanship being passed on.”
Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works, remarked, “Despite its rundown condition, our team dedicated over 2,500 hours to restore the car to better-than-new condition. If sold, it could be valued at up to £1 million. This 70th anniversary year inspires us to witness the pride of owners like the Williams family, especially after such emotional restoration.”
When John Williams saw his restored DB5, he expressed, “It’s been a long time coming but worth every penny. It’s unbelievable. My girl is back and running!”
Key Points…
- Historic DB5 Restoration at Aston Martin Works: A 1965 DB5, originally bought for less than £1,000 in the early 1970s, underwent a complete restoration at Aston Martin Works, transforming it into a highly sought-after classic.
- Owner’s Long-term Dedication and Personal Connection: John Williams, who saved for over a year to buy the car as an 18-year-old, used it as his daily driver for over four years, demonstrating a deep personal attachment and commitment.
- Exclusive and Rare Model Specifications: The restored DB5 is one of only 39 in its specific configuration, featuring Silver Birch paint, a Vantage engine, and right-hand drive, making it exceptionally rare and desirable.
- Emotional and Skilled Restoration Process:** The Aston Martin team dedicated over 2,500 hours to restore the car from a rundown state to better-than-new condition, with an estimated value of up to £1 million.
- Owner’s Joy and Legacy of Craftsmanship: John Williams expressed immense satisfaction upon seeing his fully restored DB5, highlighting the value of traditional craftsmanship and the emotional significance of the restoration.
And to visit the Aston Martin Works website, click here: http://www.astonmartinworks.com/,
