Page 1 of 2 Next >> A decade after David Brown acquired the company, Aston Martin truly came of age with the launch of the DB4 at the 1958 London Auto Show. Not only were all the major components of the DB4 new, it would form the basis for some of the company's most legendary models and moved Aston Martin into the highest end of the GT market, rivalling the likes of Ferrari.
The heart of the DB4 was a new, all aluminium straight six engine that had already seen action on the racing track in the DBR2. Designed by in-house specialist Tadek Marek, the DB4's 'six' displaced just under 3.7 litres. Breathing through a pair of SU carburettors, the big engine produced a claimed 240 bhp. It was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, while a three-speed Borg Warner automatic was available as an option.
Like the previous Aston Martins built during the David Brown ownership, the DB4 was built around a steel platform chassis. At the front, the suspension was through double wishbones and coil springs. The live rear axle was equipped with a Watt's linkage and fitted with coil springs. The DB4 was the first Aston Martin fitted all-round with disc brakes. The first cars were fitted with Dunlop discs, which were later replaced by Girling brakes.
What really made the DB4 the star of the 1958 London Motor Show was the exterior design. This was the work of Touring of Milan and included a more sculpted version of the iconic grille shape. Other striking features included a scoop on the engine cover and cooling vents in the front wings. The DB4's coachwork was constructed using Touring's Superleggera principle with aluminium panels bolted to a steel tubular frame that was welded to the chassis. Page 1 of 2 Next >>
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A decade after David Brown acquired the company, Aston Martin truly came of age with the launch of the DB4 at the 1958 London Auto Show. Not only were all the major components of the DB4 new, it would form the basis for some of the company's most legendary models and moved Aston Martin into the highest end of the GT market, rivalling the likes of Ferrari.