Arguably Aston Martin’s most recognisable model to date––and one of the most desirable classic cars in existence––the DB5 perfectly encapsulates a wave of confidence swelling at Newport Pagnell in the mid-1960s.

The all-new and eternally popular DB4 of 1958 sold well and underwent gradual mechanical and styling evolution over its near five years in production, with the later Vantage forming the basis of the DB5.

Its triple-SU-fed engine was enlarged to 3,995 cc––for the DB5––by increasing the motor’s bore to 96 mm.

Exploiting the new engine’s potent 282 brake horsepower became easier due to a ZF five-speed manual transmission (or optional three-speed Borg-Warner automatic).

Production of the DB5 amounted to just 1,022 made from September 1963 to the end of 1965––123 convertibles, 12 “shooting brakes” and 887 examples to wear the conventional saloon bodywork.

The model was a popular choice among celebrities with former keepers including Sir Paul McCartney, Peter Sellers, and rocker...