Aston Martin DB 3 (1957-59)

Overview: It looks like you might be referring to the **Aston Martin DB Mark III** (1957–59), as there was no DB3 road car—only the **DB3S**, which was a dedicated race car. The **DB Mark III** was a crucial model for Aston Martin, bridging the gap between the **DB2/4** and the later **DB4**, while introducing several key innovations.

**Significance of the Aston Martin DB Mark III**

- **Refined Design & Iconic Grille**: The DB Mark III introduced the **now-famous Aston Martin grille**, which became a defining feature of future models, including the legendary **DB5**.

- **Improved Performance**: It featured a **2.9L Lagonda straight-six engine**, redesigned by **Tadek Marek**, offering up to **195 bhp** in high-performance variants.

- **First "James Bond" Aston Martin**: The DB Mark III was the **first Aston Martin to appear in a James Bond novel**, featured in **Goldfinger**.

- **Enhanced Driving Dynamics**: It introduced **front disc brakes** (after the first 100 cars), a **hydraulically operated clutch**, and an optional **Laycock-de Normanville overdrive**, improving drivability.

- **Limited Production & Exclusivity**: Only **551 units** were built, making it a rare and sought-after classic.

The DB Mark III was a **pivotal model**, refining Aston Martin’s **grand touring philosophy** while laying the groundwork for the **DB4 and later DB5**, which cemented the brand’s global reputation.

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Common Faults

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Aston Martin DB3, produced between 1957 and 1959, is a classic sports car with a rich history. However, like any vintage vehicle, it had its share of common faults:

1. **Engine Issues**: The DB3's straight-six engine, while powerful, could suffer from overheating and oil leaks.

2. **Electrical Problems**: The electrical system was prone to faults, including issues with the wiring and battery.

3. **Transmission Troubles**: The gearbox could be problematic, with reports of difficulty in shifting and occasional gear slippage.

4. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components, particularly the rear DeDion axle, could wear out over time, leading to handling issues.

5. **Rust**: As with many cars of that era, rust could be a significant problem, especially in the chassis and body panels.

Despite these issues, the DB3 remains a beloved classic, admired for its design and performance. If you're considering owning one, regular maintenance and careful restoration can help mitigate these common faults.

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Generations/Trim Levels

Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries

Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The Aston Martin DB3 itself did not have multiple generations. However, it was succeeded by the DB3S, which was a lighter and more successful version introduced in 1953. The DB3S continued until 1956, after which it was replaced by the DBR1.

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Trim Levels

The Aston Martin DB3 was primarily a racing car, and as such, it didn't have the traditional trim levels that you might find in a road car. Instead, it was built with a focus on performance and racing specifications. The DB3 was available in both open-top and coupe body styles.

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Designer/Dimensions

The Aston Martin DB3 was designed by **Robert Eberan von Eberhorst**, an ex-Auto Union engineer.

Here are the dimensions of the Aston Martin DB3:

- **Length**: 13 ft 2½ in (4,026 mm)

- **Width**: 5 ft 1½ in (1,562 mm)

- **Height**: 3 ft 4 in (1,016 mm)

- **Wheelbase**: 7 ft 9 in (2,362 mm)

- **Axle track**: 4 ft 3 in (1,295 mm)

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Where Manufactured

The **Aston Martin DB Mark III**—often referred to as the **DB3** in period literature—was manufactured at **Newport Pagnell, England**, between **1957 and 1959**. This marked a pivotal shift for Aston Martin, as production was being centralized at Newport Pagnell, which would go on to become the brand’s iconic home for decades.

If you're curious, the DB Mark III was essentially an evolution of the DB2/4 Mk II, and it laid the groundwork for the DB4. 

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Production Total: 551 

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Price New: In 1957, the new price for an Aston Martin DB3 in the UK was approximately **£3,076**. £3,076 in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **£82,000** today. 

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Sales: The **Aston Martin DB3** (1951–53) was primarily a **race car**, not a road-going production model, so its success was measured more in **motorsport performance** than in commercial sales. Only **10 units** were built—**five works cars** for Aston Martin’s racing team and **five sold to private customers**.

While the DB3 achieved **some racing success**, including a **win at Goodwood’s 9-hour race** and podium finishes at **Silverstone**, it struggled against lighter, more powerful competitors. This led Aston Martin to develop the **DB3S**, which was a more refined and competitive successor.

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Highest Sales Figures by Country

The **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3—had a total production of **551 units**, and approximately **55% were exported**. While Aston Martin didn’t publish detailed country-by-country sales figures for this model, we can infer the highest sales regions based on export trends and market focus at the time:

Likely Highest-Selling Countries

- **United Kingdom**: As Aston Martin’s home market, a significant portion of DB Mark III sales remained domestic.

- **United States**: The largest export market for Aston Martin in the 1950s. American buyers were drawn to the DB Mark III’s blend of British craftsmanship and sporting pedigree.

- **France & Germany**: Both had growing luxury car markets post-war and were receptive to high-end British marques.

- **Switzerland**: Known for its affluent clientele and appreciation for grand tourers.

- **Canada & Australia**: Smaller but notable markets for British sports cars during this era.

The **left-hand drive (LHD) configuration was produced for 83 units**, most of which were destined for the U.S. and continental Europe.

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Historical Pricing Comparisons: The **Aston Martin DB3** is an exceptionally rare model, and unfortunately, there are **no recorded sales** or historical pricing data available. Given its **limited production** and **motorsport pedigree**, it would likely command a premium price among collectors today.

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Most Favoured Colour

For the **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**, some of the most favoured original colours included:

- **Deep Carriage Green**

- **Moonbeam Grey**

- **Peony Red**

- **Sea Green**

- **Elusive Blue**

- **Snow Shadow Grey**

These shades reflected the understated elegance of the era and were often paired with **Connolly leather interiors** in hues like fawn, red, or grey. While Aston Martin offered bespoke paint options through special request, these factory colours were among the most commonly chosen.

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Main Rivals (Price): In 1957, the prices of some of the main rivals of the Aston Martin DB3 in the UK were as follows: - 

**Jaguar XK140**: Approximately £1,693. - 

**MG MGA**: Approximately £940. View This Rival: https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-1-1/mg-mga-(1955-62) - 

**Austin-Healey 100-6**: Approximately £1,326. 

These prices reflect the competitive landscape of the time, with each car offering its own unique blend of performance and style. 

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Main Rivals (Performance)

In 1957, the main rivals of the Aston Martin DB3 included the Jaguar XK140, MG MGA, and Austin-Healey 100-6. Here's a brief overview of their performance:

- **Jaguar XK140**: The XK140 was powered by a 3.4-liter inline-six engine, producing around 190 horsepower. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 8.4 seconds and had a top speed of around 120 mph.

- **MG MGA**: The MGA featured a 1.5-liter inline-four engine, producing around 68 horsepower. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 15.3 seconds and had a top speed of around 97 mph.

- **Austin-Healey 100-6**: The 100-6 was equipped with a 2.6-liter inline-six engine, producing around 102 horsepower. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 11.2 seconds and had a top speed of around 103 mph.

These cars offered a range of performance capabilities, catering to different preferences and budgets of car enthusiasts at the time.

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Engines

The Aston Martin DB3 was equipped with two main engines during its production:

1. **2.6 L Lagonda Straight-6 Engine**: Initially, the DB3 was introduced with a 2.6-liter Lagonda straight-six engine, producing around 133 hp (99 kW).

2. **2.9 L Lagonda Straight-6 Engine**: Due to the initial engine's lack of success, a larger 2.9-liter version was introduced in June 1952, which produced approximately 163 hp (122 kW).

These engines were designed to provide the performance needed for racing, making the DB3 a notable competitor in its time.

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Performance

The Aston Martin DB3, designed primarily for racing, offered impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance metrics:

- **Top Speed**: The DB3 could reach a top speed of around 140 mph.

- **Acceleration**: It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a matter of seconds, showcasing its racing pedigree.

- **Engine Power**: The initial 2.6-liter engine produced 133 hp, while the later 2.9-liter engine increased the output to 163 hp.

These performance figures made the DB3 a competitive racer in the early 1950s, contributing to its legacy in motorsport history.

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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

The **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3—was marketed as a **refined evolution of the DB2/4**, blending **sporting pedigree with gentlemanly sophistication**. While Aston Martin’s advertising in the 1950s was relatively understated compared to American rivals, the DB Mark III’s marketing leaned heavily on **heritage, exclusivity, and performance**.

Historical Advertising Themes

- **“A Car for Connoisseurs”**: A 1959 *Road & Track* review described the DB Mark III as such, praising its virtues while acknowledging its premium price. This sentiment echoed Aston Martin’s positioning of the car as a **discerning choice for elite drivers**.

- **James Bond Connection**: In Ian Fleming’s 1959 novel *Goldfinger*, Bond drives a DB Mark III—referred to as a “DB III.” Though not a film tie-in, this literary placement subtly boosted the car’s mystique and cultural cachet.

- **Motorsport-Inspired Design**: The DB3S-style grille and performance upgrades were highlighted in brochures and press materials, linking the car to Aston Martin’s racing success without overtly marketing it as a race car.

Marketing Strategy Highlights

- **Limited Production = Exclusivity**: With only **551 units built**, Aston Martin didn’t need mass-market appeal. Instead, it focused on **bespoke craftsmanship** and **individualized customer service**.

- **Export Focus**: Around **55% of production was exported**, with the **U.S. as a key market**. Left-hand drive variants and appearances at international auto shows helped build global prestige.

- **Luxury + Performance**: Marketing materials emphasized the **hand-built nature**, **Lagonda-derived engine**, and **refined interiors**, appealing to buyers who wanted both speed and sophistication.

The DB Mark III’s marketing was less about flashy slogans and more about **quiet confidence**, letting its engineering and exclusivity speak for themselves. 

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3—holds a **strong position in the collector car world** due to its rarity, craftsmanship, and historical significance.

Rarity

- **Total Production**: Only **551 units** were built across all body styles.

- **Body Style Breakdown**:

  - **Hatchbacks**: 462

  - **Drophead Coupés**: 84

  - **Fixed Head Coupés**: Just 5—making them *exceptionally rare*.

- **Engine Variants**:

  - **DBA (Standard)**: Most common

  - **DBD (Triple SU carbs)**: Only 47 built

  - **DBB (High-performance)**: Just 10 produced

  - **DBC (Competition-spec)**: Only 1 known example

Collector Appeal

- **James Bond Connection**: Featured in *Goldfinger* (1959 novel), giving it cultural cachet before the DB5 took the spotlight.

- **Design Evolution**: Introduced the now-iconic **Aston Martin grille shape**, linking it to the brand’s modern identity.

- **Coachbuilt Quality**: Hand-assembled by **Tickford** at Newport Pagnell, with bespoke interiors and refined engineering.

- **Eligible for Prestigious Events**: Early 1957 models qualify for the **Mille Miglia Storica**, boosting desirability.

- **Auction Performance**: Well-preserved examples, especially with rare engine specs, can command **£200,000–£500,000+**, depending on provenance and condition.

The DB Mark III is a **connoisseur’s Aston**—less flashy than later DBs, but deeply respected for its elegance, engineering, and exclusivity. 

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Recorded in UK 2025 

The exact number of Aston Martin DB3s currently on the road in the UK isn't readily available from public sources. However, you can check the DVLA's vehicle information service for specific details about registered vehicles [here](https://www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla). 

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Target Age Group:

The **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)** was aimed squarely at a **mature, affluent clientele**—typically **men aged 35 to 60** with a taste for **bespoke craftsmanship, motorsport heritage, and understated luxury**.

Target Buyer Profile

- **Wealthy professionals and aristocrats** – Often with backgrounds in business, law, or the military.

- **Motoring connoisseurs** – Buyers who appreciated the DB Mark III’s engineering lineage, especially its W.O. Bentley-designed engine.

- **International collectors** – Particularly in the U.S., where Aston Martin was expanding its presence with left-hand drive variants.

- **Cultural tastemakers** – The car’s appearance in *Goldfinger* (1959 novel) subtly aligned it with the suave, sophisticated image of James Bond.

Why This Age Group?

- They had the **financial means** to afford a car priced at over **$7,000 USD**—a significant sum in the late 1950s.

- They valued **heritage and exclusivity** over flashiness, aligning with Aston Martin’s quiet confidence in its marketing.

- Many were **returning WWII veterans** or established professionals who saw the DB Mark III as a symbol of post-war success and refinement.

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Influence of Target Age Group:

The **target age group** for the Aston Martin DB Mark III—primarily **affluent men aged 35 to 60**—had a profound influence on the car’s **design, engineering, and marketing tone**. Aston Martin wasn’t chasing youthful exuberance or mass-market appeal; it was crafting a machine for the **discerning gentleman driver**.

Influence on Design & Engineering

- **Refined Styling**: The DB Mark III introduced the now-iconic Aston grille and a more elegant silhouette—subtle, not flashy—mirroring the tastes of a mature clientele.

- **Comfort Meets Performance**: While capable of 120 mph, it also featured **Connolly leather, wood veneers, and improved ride quality**, appealing to those who valued long-distance touring over raw aggression.

- **Practical Sophistication**: The hatchback layout and optional overdrive gearbox reflected a desire for usability without compromising prestige.

Influence on Marketing & Brand Positioning

- **“A Car for Connoisseurs”**: Period reviews and brochures emphasized exclusivity, craftsmanship, and heritage—speaking directly to buyers who saw cars as expressions of taste, not status.

- **Literary Prestige**: Its appearance in *Goldfinger* (1959 novel) aligned it with the suave, worldly image of James Bond—an aspirational figure for the era’s upper-middle-class professionals.

- **Export Strategy**: Left-hand drive variants and U.S. show appearances targeted **wealthy international buyers**, many of whom were older, established collectors.

This age group shaped the DB Mark III into a **gentleman’s express**—a car that whispered sophistication rather than shouted speed. 

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Parts Bin Engineering

**Parts bin engineering** is the art of blending **pragmatism with ingenuity**—and Aston Martin, even in its most exclusive models, wasn’t above a bit of clever component sharing. For the **DB Mark III (1957–1959)**, this approach helped balance **cost, reliability, and performance**, especially as the company transitioned into full production at **Newport Pagnell**.

Key Examples in the DB Mark III

- **Engine Lineage**: The 2.9L straight-six was a development of the **W.O. Bentley-designed Lagonda engine**, already proven in the DB2 and DB2/4. It was refined with triple SU carbs in the DBD spec and even further in the rare DBB and DBC variants.

- **Gearbox**: The **David Brown four-speed manual** was shared across several Aston models and derived from the company’s own gearbox division—an in-house parts bin, if you will.

- **Braking System**: Early cars used **Girling drum brakes**, while later models adopted **front disc brakes**, also sourced from Girling, a common supplier for British marques.

- **Electricals**: **Lucas components**—from ignition to lighting—were standard fare, offering reliability and ease of replacement.

- **Suspension & Axles**: The **Salisbury rear axle** and coil-sprung front suspension were shared with other British sports cars, ensuring parts availability and serviceability.

Why It Mattered

- **Cost Control**: Aston Martin was still a boutique manufacturer. Using proven components helped keep development costs manageable.

- **Reliability**: Borrowing from trusted suppliers like Lucas and Girling meant fewer teething issues.

- **Serviceability**: Owners and restorers today benefit from the availability of these shared parts.

The DB Mark III is a perfect case study in how **parts bin engineering doesn’t have to dilute prestige**—when done right, it enhances it. 

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Spares/Specialists NI

Here are a few places in the UK and Ireland where you can find spare parts for an Aston Martin DB3:

1. **SC Parts Group Ltd**: They offer a wide range of spare parts for classic Aston Martins, including the DB3.

2. **JMB Services**: Specializing in Aston Martin parts, they provide custom and reconditioned parts for various Aston Martin models.

3. **Aston Parts**: They have a comprehensive range of parts for Aston Martin models, including engine components, electrical parts, and more.

These suppliers should be able to help you find the parts you need to keep your DB3 in top condition.

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Specialists NI

There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can help with an Aston Martin DB3:

1. **Andrew Lindsay Specialist Cars**: Located in Ballygowan, Newtownards, they are well-respected for their expertise in Aston Martin and Jaguar vehicles.

2. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Based in Antrim, they offer a wide range of services, including repairs, servicing, and MOT preparation. They have a reputation for excellence across various high-end brands, including Aston Martin.

3. **Aston Martin Belfast**: An official Aston Martin dealership offering comprehensive services, including sales, aftersales, and parts. They are dedicated to providing outstanding service and expertise.

These garages should be able to assist you with any maintenance or repair needs for your Aston Martin DB3.

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Manufacturer Recommended

Engine Oil: For the **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3 in period literature—the factory recommendation was typically a **SAE 20W-50 mineral oil**, suitable for the **W.O. Bentley-designed 2.9L straight-six engine**. This multigrade oil provided the necessary viscosity for both cold starts and high-temperature operation, especially important for a hand-built grand tourer of its era.

✅ Modern Equivalents (as of 2025)

To preserve engine health while adapting to modern fuels and driving conditions, these oils are ideal:

- **Millers Classic 20W-50 Mineral** – Formulated for post-war classics with flat tappet cams and non-synthetic seals.

- **Castrol Classic XL 20W-50** – A trusted choice with period-correct additive levels and viscosity.

- **Penrite Classic Light 20W-50** – Offers excellent protection with low-detergent formulation, ideal for older engines.

- **Motul Classic 2100 20W-50** – A semi-synthetic blend that balances modern protection with vintage compatibility.

These oils are widely available through UK classic car specialists like SC Parts, Opie Oils, and Holden Vintage & Classic.

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Transmission Oil: For the **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3 in period literature—the factory recommendation for the **manual transmission** was typically an **SAE 90 gear oil**, consistent with British sports car standards of the era. This oil provided the necessary viscosity and protection for the **David Brown four-speed gearbox**, especially under spirited driving conditions.

🛠️ Modern Equivalents (as of 2025)

To maintain gearbox health while adapting to modern driving and materials, the following **GL-4 gear oils** are ideal:

- **Castrol Classic EP 90** – A mineral-based oil with period-correct viscosity and additive levels.

- **Millers Classic Gear Oil 80W-90 GL-4** – Offers improved cold-flow characteristics while protecting bronze synchros.

- **Red Line MT-90 75W-90 GL-4** – A synthetic option that enhances shift quality and thermal stability.

- **Penrite Mild EP Gear Oil 90** – Designed for vintage gearboxes with yellow metal compatibility.

⚠️ **Avoid GL-5 oils**, as their high sulfur content can damage the **bronze synchronizers** used in classic transmissions.

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Tyres: For the **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3 in period literature—the factory-recommended tyres were:

🛞 **Original Fitment**

- **600 H 16 Avon Turbospeed** crossply tyres  

  These were standard equipment and provided a smooth, period-correct ride with light steering, though they lacked the directional stability of modern radials.

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🆕 **Modern Equivalents (2025)**

To preserve authenticity or enhance drivability, you have two main options:

✅ **Crossply (for originality)**

- **Pirelli Stella Bianca 6.00-16 V-rated** – A faithful recreation with improved construction.

- **Avon Turbospeed 600 H 16** – Closest to original factory fitment.

✅ **Radial (for improved handling)**

- **Pirelli Cinturato CA67 185VR16** – Period-correct radial with V-speed rating; offers progressive handling and better grip.

- **Michelin Pilote X 600R16** – Designed for classic sports cars; excellent water dispersion and steering feedback.

- **Michelin X 185SR16** – A more affordable radial with a vintage profile and long life.

- **Vredestein Sprint Classic 185R16** – A budget-friendly option with decent performance.

These tyres are available through classic specialists like [Longstone Tyres](https://www.longstonetyres.co.uk/classic-car-tyres/aston-martin/db2-mk3.html) and [Vintage Tyres](https://www.vintagetyres.com/vehicle-make/aston-martin/db-mkiii-1957-to-1959), and many are eligible for club discounts or free UK shipping.

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Petrol: For the **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)**—often referred to as the DB3 in period literature—the factory recommendation was **four-star leaded petrol**, which typically had an **octane rating of 97–100 RON**. This suited the **2.9L Lagonda straight-six engine**, especially in its higher-compression DBD, DBB, and DBC variants.

⛽ Modern Equivalents (2025)

Since leaded petrol is no longer available, the best modern substitutes are:

✅ **Super Unleaded (E5, 97–99 RON)**

- **Shell V-Power** (99 RON)

- **Esso Synergy Supreme+** (97–99 RON, ethanol-free in some UK regions)

- **BP Ultimate** (97–98 RON)

These fuels offer the **high octane** needed for optimal combustion and are **low in ethanol (E5)**, which is safer for classic fuel systems.

⚠️ Avoid:

- **E10 petrol** – Its higher ethanol content can degrade rubber seals, fuel lines, and carburettor components in classic cars.

- **Standard 95 RON unleaded** – May cause knocking or reduced performance, especially in high-compression variants.

🧪 Optional Additives

- **Octane boosters** – Useful if only 95 RON is available.

- **Lead substitutes** – Help protect valve seats in engines not converted for unleaded fuel.

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Racing

The Aston Martin DB3 had a notable racing history, competing in various prestigious events during the early 1950s. Here are some key races:

1. **1951 Tourist Trophy at Dundrod**: The DB3 made its racing debut in September 1951 at this event.

2. **1952 Silverstone**: The DB3 placed 2nd, 3rd, and 4th at Silverstone in May 1952.

3. **1952 Goodwood Nine Hours**: The DB3 claimed victory at this endurance race¹.

4. **1953 Sebring 12 Hours**: A DB3 driven by Reg Parnell and George Abecassis placed 2nd.

5. **1953 Mille Miglia**: Reg Parnell drove a DB3 to 5th place, the highest position ever reached by a British sports car in this Italian classic.

These races highlight the DB3's competitive spirit and its contribution to Aston Martin's racing legacy.

Several famous drivers were associated with the Aston Martin DB3 during its racing career:

1. **Reg Parnell**: A prominent British racing driver, Parnell had significant success with the DB3, including a notable 2nd place finish at the 1953 Sebring 12 Hours.

2. **George Abecassis**: Another key figure in Aston Martin's racing history, Abecassis also drove the DB3 in various events.

3. **Eric Thompson**: He partnered with Reg Parnell in the DB3's debut at the 1951 Le Mans.

4. **Lance Macklin**: Known for his skill and determination, Macklin was one of the drivers who competed in the DB3.

These drivers contributed to the DB3's legacy in motorsport history.

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Valuation

The value of an Aston Martin DB3 can vary significantly based on its condition, history, and provenance. As of now, the price for a well-maintained Aston Martin DB3 in the UK can range from **£185,000 to £195,000**.

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Investment Assessment

I’d rate the **Aston Martin DB Mark III (1957–1959)** a solid **4 out of 5** as a financial investment. Here’s why it earns that score:

💼 Investment Strengths

- **Limited Production**: Only **551 units** built, with ultra-rare variants like the **Fixed Head Coupé (5 made)** and **DBB/DBC engines** commanding premium prices.

- **Cultural Cachet**: Its appearance in *Goldfinger* (1959 novel) gives it early Bond mystique—before the DB5 stole the spotlight.

- **Design Legacy**: First Aston to feature the now-iconic grille shape, linking it to the brand’s modern identity.

- **Auction Performance**: Well-preserved examples regularly fetch **£200,000–£500,000+**, with rare specs exceeding that.

- **Global Appeal**: Eligible for prestigious events like the **Mille Miglia Storica**, boosting desirability among international collectors.

⚠️ Considerations

- **Restoration Costs**: High, especially for rare engine variants or coachbuilt bodies.

- **Market Plateau**: Prices peaked in the mid-2010s and have since stabilized, though top-tier examples still perform well.

- **Less Glamour than DB4/DB5**: It’s a connoisseur’s car—less flashy, but deeply respected.

In short, it’s a **blue-chip classic** with enduring appeal, especially for collectors who value craftsmanship and rarity over cinematic fame. 

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Version with highest Investment Potential

The **Aston Martin DB Mark III variant with the highest investment potential** is undoubtedly the **DBB-spec Fixed Head Coupé**—a unicorn in the classic car world.

Why the DBB Fixed Head Coupé Stands Out

- **Extreme Rarity**: Only **5 Fixed Head Coupés** were built, and just **10 DBB-spec engines** were produced. All five coupés are believed to have been fitted with the DBB engine, making them *exceptionally rare*.

- **High-Performance Engine**: The **DBB engine** featured:

  - Triple twin-choke **Weber 35 DCO3 carburettors**

  - **High-compression pistons** (8.6:1)

  - **Special camshafts**

  - Output of **195 bhp**, making it the most powerful road-going DB Mark III variant.

- **Coachbuilt Exclusivity**: These cars were hand-finished by **Tickford** and built near the end of production, often with bespoke features.

- **Collector Prestige**: Their rarity, performance, and historical significance make them highly coveted at concours events and auctions.

 Market Outlook

- When they appear (which is rare), DBB Fixed Head Coupés can command **£500,000–£1 million+**, depending on provenance and condition.

- Their eligibility for events like the **Mille Miglia Storica** and their Bond-era mystique only enhance their appeal.

If you're looking for the **ultimate blue-chip DB Mark III**, this is it. 

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Clubs

There is an Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) in Northern Ireland. You can find more information about events, contact details for local representatives, and the latest news on their [Area 2 - Northern Ireland page] (https://amoc.org/Area2).

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HISTORY-ENVIRONMENT

PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres. 

Road Tax: In 1957, the road tax for vehicles in the UK was based on engine size. For cars with engines over 1549cc, like the Aston Martin DB3, the annual road tax was approximately **£12**. £12 in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **£330** today. 

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Petrol: The average price of four-star petrol by the litre in the UK in 1957 was approximately £0.0385 (or about 3.85 pence). The average price of four-star petrol in the UK in 1957 (£0.0385 per litre) equates to approximately £1.16 per litre today when adjusted solely for inflation. However, modern pump prices are higher due to additional factors like taxes, crude oil costs, and environmental policies, with current averages around £1.50–£1.60 per litre as of early 2025. 

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Insurance: The exact average cost of insurance for an Aston Martin DB3 in 1957 isn't readily available from public sources. However, insurance for classic cars like the DB3 was generally more affordable compared to today's rates, given the lower value of the cars and fewer regulations. 

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COST OF LIVING UK In 1957, the average annual salary in the UK was approximately **£500**. £500 in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **£13,300** today. 

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In 1957, the average price of a house in the UK was approximately **£2,530**. £2,530 in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **£67,500** today](https://www.propertyinvestmentproject.co.uk/property-statistics/nationwide-average-house-price/). 

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In 1957, the average price of a new car in the UK was approximately **£1,000**. £1,000 in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **£27,000** today. 

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In 1957, the average price of a loaf of bread in the UK was approximately **8 pence**. 8 pence in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **£2.16** today. 

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 In 1957, the average price per mile of a bus journey in the UK was approximately **1.5 pence**. 1.5 pence per mile in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **40 pence per mile** today. 

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In 1957, the average charge per mile for a taxi journey in the UK was approximately **1.5 pence**. 1.5 pence per mile in 1957 is equivalent to approximately **40 pence per mile** today. 

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In 2025, the average cost per mile of a railway journey in the UK is approximately **33 pence per mile**. In 2025, the average cost per mile of a car journey in the UK is approximately **33 pence per mile**. 

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In 1957, there were nearly **7 million vehicles** recorded on UK roads. As of 2025, there are approximately **41.4 million vehicles** on UK roads. 

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