Aston Martin DB2/4 Production Dates: 1953 – 1955

The DB2 was Aston Martin’s best selling model to date, but the economic climate for a two-seater car at this price was limited, so Aston Martin began work on making changes to the car.

Removing the cross-bracing above the rear axle had allowed space for two rear seats to be fitted, and a lift-up rear door – which today we would call a hatchback – was let into the rear bodywork for access to the luggage space.

Further revisions to the body included separate bumpers – the DB2 had a chrome rubbing strip – and a single-piece windscreen. To counteract a small increase in weight, the 125 bhp Vantage spec engine was now standard.

The DB2/4 was shown at the London Motor Show in 1953; both saloon and drophead versions were available. Further improvements in the design of the body included a different shape for the rear quarter lights, headlamps set higher in the bonnet and improved bumpers.

In September 1953, a new 3-litre unit, which could produce 140bhp at 5000bhp.

In 1955, David Brown moved production to Tickford at Newport Pagnell when the second generation DB2/4 (which became known as the Mark II) was built.

At its peak, the DB2/4 was being built at the rate of six/seven cars a week even though it was strictly hand-built.

Aston Martin DB2/4 Specifications

Price New: £ 2,622 (Saloon), £ 2,910 (Drophead Coupe)

  • Engine: DOHC I-6, 2580 cc, 125 bhp @ 5000 rpm, 144 lbs-ft @2400 rpm; 1954-57 Mk II: 2922 cc, 140 bhp @5000 rpm, 178 lbs-ft @ 3000 rpm
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Suspension: Front: trailing arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar / Rear: live axle, trailing links, Panhard rod, coil springs
  • Brakes: Front and Rear hydraulic drums
  • Wheelbase: 8’3”
  • Weight: 1179kg
  • Top Speed: 120 mph
  • 0-60 mph: 12.6 sec