Aston Martin started work on the DB4 in 1956, at the same time as the DB Mark III. The key people involved in the development of the DB4 were General Manager John Wyer, Chassis Designer Harold Beach, and Engine Designer Tadek Marek. Every major component in the DB4 was new.
The four-seater body was designed by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, using their ‘Superleggera’ construction method in which aluminium panels are fixed to a tubular frame built onto a substantial platform chassis.
A NEW ERA
The new car was shown at the London Motor show in 1958, sharing a stand with the DB Mark III which was to continue in production for almost a year. The DB4 was the first production car capable of 0-100-0 mph in under 30 sec, claiming to reach the 100 mph mark in 21 seconds. The iconic DB4 heralded a new era for Aston Martin and put the company back in competition with other high performance sports car manufacturers.
CONVERTIBLE
A DB4 convertible was announced at the London Motor Show in 1961. Throughout its production life the DB4 range was gradually developed, adding a GT version and some significant model year changes (often referred to as series 2, 3, 4 and 5) before finally being replaced by the DB5.
SPECIFICATIONS
Transmission: 4-speed manual with optional overdrive or optional Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
Brakes: Dunlop Servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
Weight: 1308 kg
0 – 60 mph: 9 sec
Engine: DOHC Straight six, 3670 cc, 240 bhp @ 5000 rpm 240 lbs-ft @ 4200 rpm
Suspension: Front: Telescopic shock absorbers Rear: Lever arm shock absorbers
Dimensions (LxWxH): 4480 x 1676 x 1321 mm (Saloon), 4480 x 1676 x 1323 mm (Convertible)
Top Speed: 140 mph
