The Aston Martin DB5 restoration marks a milestone for the Williams family, who finally see their treasured car return to its former glory after more than fifty years of ownership.
A Story Spanning Generations
John Williams bought the DB5 as a teenager after saving for more than a year. He travelled from North Wales to London in 1973 and returned home with his dream car. The DB5 soon became his daily drive before life changes forced him to store it for decades.
A Car That Never Lost Its Meaning
Although the DB5 deteriorated while parked outdoors, the family kept it. John resisted offers to sell, holding onto the goal of restoring the car. His wife Sue recalls neighbourhood children climbing on it, turning the once pristine car into a battered shell with emotional value.
Return to Newport Pagnell
The family chose Aston Martin Works for the restoration. The site built more than 13,000 cars over five decades, making it the natural home for the project. Work began in 2022, with the couple visiting frequently to track each stage of its transformation.
Craftsmanship Behind the Renewal
The bare metal process rebuilt the chassis, Superleggera frame and aluminium panels by hand. The result preserves the original methods used in the 1960s while presenting a finish that meets modern expectations.
A Rare and Valuable Specification
The restored DB5 features the sought-after Vantage engine, Weber carburettors and the iconic Silver Birch colour. Only thirty-nine cars left the factory with this engine, paintwork and right-hand-drive configuration, which adds to its rarity.
Power and Performance Highlights
The Vantage specification elevated the DB5 above the standard model. Its higher output engine, responsive carburettors and balanced dynamics helped define the DB5’s reputation. The restored car promises the same engaging performance that made the model a benchmark in its era.
The Emotional Reveal
Seeing the finished DB5 brought strong reactions from the Williams family. John described the first drive in nearly fifty years as unbelievable. Sue expressed admiration for the skill and care shown throughout the process.
A Project That Connects Past and Present
Aston Martin Works devoted more than 2,500 hours to the restoration. For the craftspeople involved, the project reflects their commitment to maintaining heritage skills while producing results that exceed original standards.
Summary
This Aston Martin DB5 restoration blends a rare specification with a deeply personal story. It brings together skilled craftsmanship, family dedication and one of the marque’s most recognisable models, returning a long-stored icon to the road with renewed purpose.
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Source: Aston Martin Works
