Aston Martin Origin & History

The history behind Aston Martin is a memorable one. You may know the name Aston Martin due to the popular DB models having made a notorious mark in films, mainly attributed to the James Bond films throughout the years. Whether you are looking to purchase a new Aston Martin model, or are just curious about the history, Holman Motorcars is here to help. Aston Martin’s history dates back to the formative years of automotive.

Aston Martin – The Beginning

The Aston Martin models you have come to know and love started from humble beginnings.

• The very first Aston Martin was built and registered in 1915 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford – it was nicknamed “Coal Scuttle”. Once both men had to leave during the First World War production was halted until 1920.
• Between 1920 and 1924 Aston Martin built about 55 cars which were used mostly for racing with limited public use.
• Things finally settled after multiple shifts in ownership and an official name change to Aston Martin prior to World War 2.

Why is Aston Martin Called DB?

A tractor manufacturer company called David Brown Limited bought the company in 1947, while simultaneously working with his other acquired automotive business, Lagonda. Lagonda is an important piece of the puzzle as David was working on a new V6 engine that started the ‘2 litre sports’ (dubbed the DB). Due to this new advancement Aston Martin models began to also sport David Brown’s initials:

• 1950-1953: DB2 (410 built)
• 1953-1957: DB2/4 (761 built)
• 1957-1959: DB MkIII (552 built)
• 1958-1963: DB4 (1185 built)
• 1960-1962: DB4 Zagato (19 built)
• 1963-1965: DB5 (1059 built)
• 1965-1950: DB6 (1788 built)
• 1967-1972: DBS (1193 built)

The DB models become iconic after appearing in a number of James Bond films over the years to follow. In 1972 David Brown sold the company.

Aston Martin Vantage, V8, and Volante

While the DB designation started with a new V6 engine, there was more in the works for Aston Martin models. This skyrocketed a new era of remarkable cars:

• 1969: V8 version of the DBS
• 1972: unveiling of AMV8
• 1977: new Aston Martin Vantage – hailed as the first British supercar
• 1980: a concept car called Bulldog
• 1987: Ford Motors took a substantial holding in the company
• 1988: V8 Virage made its debut

Aston Martin and Ford Motors

Once under Ford Motors ownership production of Aston Martin models increased, while still respecting the marque’s unique reputation for quality. We also saw the revamping of DB models, which was known as the DB7. During this time new models were produced which included:

• 1988-1996: V8 Virage (598 built)
• 1993-2000: V8 Vantage (288 built)
• 1994-1999: DB7 (2,461 built)
• 1996-2000: V8 Coupe (101 built)
• 1997-2000: V8 Volante (64 built)
• 1999-2003: DB7 Vantage (4,431 built)
• 1999-2003: DB7 Vantage Voltage (2,046 built)
• 2001-2007: V12 Vanquish (2,578 built)
• 2003: DB7 Zagato (200 built)

During this Ford era Aston Martin continued to have a strong association with James Bond, as numerous models continued to be featured in these films. In 2013 Aston Martin forged a partnership with Mercedes-AMG.

Find Your Aston Martin Luxury Model at Holman Motorcars

After numerous years of changes and shifts Aston Martin is still an iconic brand. Currently offering 5 separate luxury models, in 50 countries on six continents, Aston Martin has a lot to offer drivers around the world. Holman Motorcars will continue to offer models available to the public while keeping up to the iconic name.