Steve Coogan's 1970 Aston Martin DBS V8 to cross the block at Silverstone Classic

Steve Coogan's 1970 Aston Martin DBS V8 to cross the block at Silverstone Classic

The famous factory press car, SKX 11J, is beautifully restored, maintained and presented
Tested by Motor Magazine in 1971 at an average speed of 160mph on the unfinished M4
Currently owned since 2011 by actor and comedian, Steve Coogan and offered for sale direct from him


The 1970 Aston Martin DBS V8 which was the original factory press car is coming to market at the Silverstone Classic sale and being offered directly from the current owner, actor and comedian Steve Coogan.


This is a very famous car and in the most incredible condition, with a fascinating story behind its provenance.


Designed by William Towns the Aston Martin DBS arrived in 1969 as a four-seater V8 capable of 160mph, which at the time was being built alongside the DB6 it was intended to replace. It was a clean modern looking car which was liked by many owners and featured the four headlamp styling until 1972.


This particular car was the original factory press car used to launch the new V8 model and also used by Motor Magazine, who in 1971 took the car onto the unfinished M4 and tested it over a measured mile at an average speed of 160mph, which at the time was a staggering performance. 20 years later Tony Dron who was one of their original testers was reacquainted with the car after it had undergone restoration, a copy of which is included with the car.


When the car left Aston Martin in 1973 little was known of its whereabouts until it was discovered in a field in Scotland but in need of restoration. This was duly carried out by specialists Chapman and Spooner. After it was purchased it underwent further work to fine tune the chassis by John Armitage and the injection system by marque specialists.


Multi BAFTA winning Academy Award nominee and classic car collector, Steve Coogan, acquired the car in 2011 and has cherished this car whilst in his ownership. It has been maintained by marque specialists Aston Engineering and Stratton Motor Company, with a number of invoices detailing the expert attention lavished on the car.


The DBS V8 is in superb condition, presented in Dark Blue with black leather seats and a manual gearbox. It still retains the Becker-Mexico radio but with the addition of iPod connectivity. The car has led an interesting life and is an important part of Aston Martin’s history. This Aston Martin DBS V8 needs to be seen to be appreciated and Silverstone Auctions are delighted to have been asked by Steve Coogan to sell the car on his behalf at their sale on the 26th to 28th July at the Silverstone Classic. It is estimated at £145,000 to £165,000.


Nick Whale, Managing Director of Silverstone Auctions commented: “We are delighted to have been asked by Steve Coogan to sell this magnificent and historically important car which is in outstanding and concours condition. He is obviously famous for his acting and comedy but is also a distinguished car collector and has really looked after this DBS V8.”


“For us as a business, it is very reassuring that people of his standing feel confident in coming to us directly to help them sell their cars and we are very proud to present this DBS V8 which is an unrepeatable opportunity.”


The Silverstone Classic Auction takes place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019 offering an exclusive selection of classic cars, sports cars and supercars and automobilia. The lots can be previewed on the 26th July from 09.00 to 18.00.


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