ASTON MARTIN - DB2(1950-1953) - First Sanction, one of 49 examples built,

Caratteristiche

Descrizione

- The term “First Sanction” refers to the earliest production batch of DB2s, built between 1950 and 1951, distinguished by their hand-built construction, three-piece front grille, and distinctive early design details

- First Sanction cars are particularly revered for their purity, rarity, and historical significance

- One of 49 examples built, a few still exist today in such a tasteful, authentic configuration, with an exterior and interior color combination that perfectly complements the car’s understated character

- With an estimated 411 DB2s built in total between 1950 and 1953, the early cars remain the most sought-after by collectors

- Engine: 2.6-litre DOHC Inline-6

- Beautifully fully nut and bolt restored in period correct delivery and highly eligible for international historic events like the prestigious Mille Miglia

The Aston Martin DB2 holds a special place in the marque’s storied heritage. 

The DB2 made its debut at the 1950 New York Motor Show, where it impressed with its sleek styling and advanced engineering.

It was the first production model built under the guidance of industrialist David Brown, who had acquired Aston Martin in 1947. 

More than just a new model, the DB2 represented a complete transformation of the company’s identity, ushering in the modern era of performance, elegance, and engineering excellence for which Aston Martin would become world-renowned.

When David Brown took control of Aston Martin and later Lagonda, he united two prestigious but struggling British marques. 

Crucially, the purchase of Lagonda in 1947 gave him access to the brilliant W.O. Bentley-designed 2.6-litre straight-six engine. 

This advanced dual overhead camshaft unit would become the heart of the DB2 and was far superior to Aston’s pre-war powerplants.

The DB2 proved itself in competition. 

It made a strong showing at the 1950 24 Hours of Le Mans, where two factory-entered prototypes finished first and second in class (fifth and sixth overall). 

This performance marked the beginning of Aston Martin’s serious motorsport campaign under David Brown and helped cement the DB2’s reputation as both a sports car and a race car.

In 1951, Aston Martin entered a pair of early production DB2s (First Sanction cars) in the Mille Miglia, managed by the factory racing team.

Piloting the cars were Reg Parnell and George Abecassis, both seasoned drivers and key figures in Aston’s competition program. Their DB2s ran in the 2.0 to 3.0-litre Sports category, competing against some of Europe’s most formidable machinery from Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, and Lancia.

Despite the challenging nature of the Mille Miglia, narrow mountain passes, unpredictable weather, and a punishing pace, the DB2s performed admirably, showcasing their balance of power, reliability, and handling.

The term “First Sanction” refers to the earliest production batch of DB2s, built between 1950 and 1951, distinguished by their hand-built construction, three-piece front grille, and distinctive early design details. 

Just 49 of these First Sanction cars were made before Aston Martin introduced the later production runs.

With an estimated 411 DB2s built in total between 1950 and 1953, the early cars remain the most sought-after by collectors.

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

This remarkable 1951 Aston Martin DB2 is a beautifully presented First Sanction example, one of just 49 examples built that are particularly revered for their purity, rarity, and historical significance.

This specific examples is finished in it’s delivery specification which is Birch Grey with exactly the perfect dark green interior delivered by Connolly. The car has a rare and elegant combination that perfectly captures the understated British style of the early post-war grand tourers.

It retains all of the original hand-built details that distinguish the earliest DB2s, including: the distinctive three-piece front grille,  the hand-formed aluminum panels, the early dashboard configuration and the unique badging and trim consistent with early Feltham production.

This DB2 ‘First Sanction’ is powered by its original 2.6-litre Lagonda DOHC inline-six, developed by W.O. Bentley and paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox. 

The car retains its matching numbers engine and chassis, and benefits from an absolute impeccable no cost spared restoration.

The car is Mille Miglia eligible, supported by the model’s period participation in the 1951 and 1952 editions, and is a prime candidate for entry into this prestigious historic event.

Its authenticity and period-correct specification make it an ideal entrant for other internationally renowned historic events, including Le Mans Classic and Goodwood Revival.

The subtle color contrast between the green interior and grey body and the absolute amazing condition makes this example one of the more visually distinctive and desirable DB2s.

CONDITION EXTERIOR

Finished in a subtle yet striking Birch grey, the bodywork is in superb condition, showing excellent panel fit and smooth, flowing lines characteristic of Frank Feeley’s original design.

The chrome elements, including the bumpers, grille, and delicate trim, have been restored on the highest possible level

Original-style wire wheels with knock-off hubs complete the authentic look, providing a perfect balance between sporting intent and classic elegance.

This car has undergone a complete nut and bold restoration. The entire body was taken from the chassis and the car was restored from the ground.

Since the restoration the Aston has been scarcely used and is therefore in a mint/concours condition. 

CONDITION INTERIOR 

Inside, the DB2 is trimmed in rich Green leather according to the specification written on the build sheet of the car.

The exact leather according to the numbers are ordered and installed and were supplied by Connolly. The so-called vaumol leather suits the exterior amazingly well and is in as new condition. 

The other details in the interior such as the wooden dashboard with chrome trimmed meters are all in a concours condition. 

Every single part, every single meter, ever single button has been restored or renewed when needed.

This results in a new but old interior. 

The seats, door panels, and dash are beautifully finished, offering a refined cabin environment.

Every surface reflects the spirit of early 1950s Aston Martin, a time when elegance was achieved through proportion and restraint, rather than ornament.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The Aston runs and drives beautifully, with the smooth power delivery and mechanical refinement that made the DB2 such a critical success in its day. 

With responsive handling, ample torque, and a surprisingly modern feel, the DB2 remains one of the most enjoyable early 1950s GT cars to drive and one of the few British sports cars of the era with a strong racing pedigree and international appeal.

Perfect for touring, concours, or entry into the prestigious next edition of the Mille Miglia, this DB2 represents the ideal balance between historic authenticity, mechanical integrity, and visual appeal.

A few still exist today in such a tasteful, authentic configuration, with an exterior and interior color combination that perfectly complements the car’s understated character.

This is not just an Aston Martin, it is one of the cars that helped shape the legend of Aston Martin. A genuine piece of motoring history, now ready to be driven, displayed, and enjoyed.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website has been compiled by The Houtkamp Collection with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. The Houtkamp Collection is not liable for any errors or mistakes.