The 1965 Aston Martin DB5 remains the ultimate symbol of British sophistication, forever cemented in history as the definitive vehicle of the James Bond franchise. This specific chassis, VIN DB51856R, carries a unique narrative as it was built by the legendary Hollywood car designer George Barris. While this car did not appear on the silver screen, it served as a licensed promotional vehicle for the 007 movies, representing the “Goldfinger” specification at high-profile events. Sourced from a background that allegedly included time with the Aston Martin race team, this DB5 represents a rare intersection of genuine automotive heritage and global pop-culture iconography.
Silver Birch Aesthetics and Secret Agent Gadgets
The exterior of this 1965 Aston Martin DB5 is finished in the signature Silver shade that defines the 007 aesthetic, emphasizing the car’s Superleggera-informed silhouette. To fulfill its role as a promotional Bond car, George Barris equipped the vehicle with an array of functional movie-inspired upgrades. These include simulated machine guns housed within the headlights, a smoke exhaust system, and a water hose positioned under the bumper. Additional modifications feature rotating 007 vanity plates and a bulletproof shield that rises from the rear trunk. While the wheels are English aftermarket replacements, the original frame and bodywork preserve the authentic proportions that made the DB5 a design masterpiece.
A Refurbished Cabin with a Hollywood Signature
Inside the 1965 Aston Martin DB5, the cabin has been completely redone to maintain the luxurious standard expected of the marque while integrating specific Bond-themed hardware. The Black leather interior is punctuated by an agent radar screen, a critical component of the Goldfinger-style transformation. A standout detail for collectors is the center console armrest, which bears the authentic signature of George Barris himself. This interior serves as a functional workspace for a “secret agent,” blending high-quality upholstery with the whimsical yet meticulously crafted controls for the car’s various gadgets. The result is an environment that feels like a curated time capsule from the height of the 1960s spy craze.
Mechanical Heritage and the DB6 Connection
Originally, this 1965 Aston Martin DB5 was supposedly equipped with a larger and more potent DB6 engine during its time with the factory race team. Although that specific unit is currently removed, it accompanies the sale as a separate component along with the original transmission and other essential parts. The car currently operates as a rolling piece of history, with its original suspension and rear-end assembly intact. While specific power output varies based on the engine configuration, a standard DB5 would typically produce approximately 282 hp/PS and 288 lb-ft/390 Nm of torque from its straight-six power plant. This mechanical flexibility allows the next owner to decide between maintaining its promotional status or returning it to its racing roots.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Year | 1965 |
| Model | DB5 Coupe |
| VIN | DB51856R |
| Mileage | 24,155 |
| Exterior Color | Silver |
| Builder | George Barris (007 Promotional) |
| Included Parts | DB6 Engine and Transmission |
| Notable Gadgets | Machine Guns, Smoke Screen, Radar |
Market Significance and Collector Value
The 1965 Aston Martin DB5 occupies a market tier where provenance is everything, and this Barris-built example offers a story unlike any other. Compared to standard DB5s, its history as a licensed promotional tool for the Bond franchise adds a layer of Hollywood memorabilia value. While it lacks the direct movie-set “hero car” status that commands eight-figure prices, its genuine DB5 chassis and Barris connection make it a standout asset for cross-genre collectors. The inclusion of the original race-team DB6 engine parts further enhances its unique selling point, offering a mechanical pedigree that bridges the gap between a show car and a high-performance vintage racer.
The Ultimate Piece of Bond History
This 1965 Aston Martin DB5 is a rare survivor that perfectly captures the excitement of the 007 legacy through the lens of a legendary Hollywood builder. With its verified chassis and a suite of functioning gadgets, it remains one of the most recognizable and entertaining vehicles in the world. This is a singular opportunity to acquire a car that is both a serious investment and a legendary entertainer.
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Source: motorcarclassics.com
