The Aston Martin DB6 was the final iteration of the long-running and very successful series of David Brown six-cylinder saloons. It is regarded by many as the ultimate variant, combining the very best features of its predecessors, the DB4 and the DB5, whilst incorporating a number of upgrades, particularly to the styling. The most important of these changes was the addition of a Kamm-style tail, which featured a small but distinctive upswept spoiler that improved the aerodynamics and increased stability at high speeds. To allow more space for the rear seats, the wheelbase was extended by 4 inches.

The Tadek Marek designed six-cylinder 3,995cc engine of the DB5 was carried across for the DB6. With triple SU carburettors the output was 282 bhp but this rose to 325 bhp in Vantage specification. Power assisted steering was available as an option and the DB6 was the first Aston Martin model to offer this.

At the London Motor Show in October 1965, a convertible version of the DB6 was unveiled and the evocative word ‘Volante’ entered the Aston Martin vocabulary for the very first time. ‘Volante’ is the Italian word for ‘flying’ and it has become synonymous with some of the most-desirable Aston Martins. The DB6 Volante offered four seats and was luxuriously equipped with leather upholstery, deep-pile carpets and an aircraft inspired instrument cluster. It was produced in very low numbers and today it is one of the most sought-after models of the David Brown era.

Vantage specification could be chosen for the Volante to increase the performance and a select few cars were fitted with ‘VC’ engines which featured an upgrade to the inlet cam. Only 13 examples were ever produced with this higher specification VC engine and chassis 3732/R is one of them.

Chassis 3732/R was completed on the 2^nd May 1969 and was sold new through the dealer Wilmslow Garages Limited. As confirmed by the build sheet, it was ordered ‘To Volante ZF Vantage convertible spec’ and featured the VC engine along with a 5-speed ZF manual gearbox. Other factory optional extras included power assisted steering, power operated arial, tonneau cover, chrome road wheels, three ear hub caps, seat belts and 7 pints of antifreeze. The car was finished in the very attractive colour combination of Olive over a Tan Connolly leather interior with a Tan roof, the colours that it is presented in today.

It is a very original example, benefitting from almost 30 years in the ownership of its most recent keeper and still retaining its original chassis, body, engine, gearbox and rear axle, which is very rarely seen. The car comes complete with a well-documented history file, presents beautifully throughout and has been freshly serviced by marque specialists RS Williams Ltd.