1959 Aston Martin DB4 GT 3.7L 4MT (306 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In October 1958, Aston Martin unveiled a revolutionary car in its lineup at the Parish Motor Show, and a new era began for the British car manufacturer from Newport Parnell.

The DB Mark III was already at its third evolution, and the British automaker needed to upgrade. But it did that with a unibody architecture, ditching the body-on-frame system used before. That allowed Aston Martin to create a lighter vehicle. In addition, the DB4 sported a shorter wheelbase, so the car could have been nimbler than its predecessor. In the following year, the British automaker introduced an even sportier version: the DB4 GT.

With its thinner aluminum bodywork panels, the DB4 GT was created to demonstrate the brand’s technical abilities and outrun the competition. Its wheelbase was even shorter than the one featured on the regular DB4, so the handling around tight turns was even better. To further improve the car’s aerodynamics, Aston Martin enclosed the headlights behind thin protective lenses, flush with the front fenders. The lightweight version featured roll-up Plexiglas windows and drilled suspension elements. Thus, Aston Martin shaved about 150 lbs (68 kg) from the DB4’s weight.

But being an Aston Martin, it couldn’t leave all the luxury features from the cabin. The front bucket seats were still covered in leather, but the rear bench was removed.

Inside, the Connely leather and carpeted floors created a luxurious atmosphere for the occupants. A pair of bucket seats were fitted at the front, while a bench for two was in the rear. Yet, the car was mostly designed just for two people on board. On the dashboard, Aston Martin placed the instrument panel in front of the driver but added a clock closer to the passenger.

Under the hood, Aston Martin installed a tweaked-out 3.8-liter, straight-six engine. Less than 100 units of this marvelous sports-GT vehicle were ever made.