The Aston Martin DB4, produced from 1958 to 1963, set the design language for Aston Martin for a decade. Its stunning aluminum body was built over a steel tube frame using Carrozzeria Touring's Superleggera method. It also introduced the Tadek Marek-designed 3.7L straight-6 engine, a powerplant that would serve the company through the DBS V8's arrival.
The DB4 is a cornerstone of any serious Aston Martin collection, representing the direct predecessor to the more famous DB5. With 5 distinct series and special variants like the lightweight GT and ultra-rare Zagato, the DB4 offers variety and pedigree. Collectors value its blend of Italian design and British engineering, which created one of the great grand tourers of the era.
The market for standard DB4s is well-established, with average prices sitting around $465,000 for solid examples from the later series. While this is less than a comparable DB5, the best cars command strong figures. Prices for the ultra-desirable GT and Zagato models exist on a completely different level, often trading for millions of dollars.
Buying Tips
- The Superleggera construction features a steel tube frame under an aluminum skin; check for corrosion in the frame, especially around the sills and outriggers, as repairs are expensive.
- The 3.7L straight-6 engine is costly to rebuild. Check for low oil pressure when warm, signs of excessive oil consumption (blue smoke), and listen for timing chain noise.
- Verify originality. A matching-numbers car with its original engine is worth significantly more, so check the chassis and engine numbers against factory records.
- These cars can run hot in traffic. Inspect the cooling system for leaks and ask about any upgrades, like a more modern electric fan or an aluminum radiator.
Based on recent sales, prices for 1961-1963 models range from $270,000 to $830,000.
431 Aston Martin DB4 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 19 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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