The 1970 Aston Martin DBS represents a pivotal moment in British automotive history, marking the transition from the elegant curves of the 1960s to the muscular angularity that would define supercars for decades to come. This remarkable machine emerged during a golden age of grand touring excellence, when manufacturers across Europe were pushing the boundaries of performance, luxury, and design innovation. The DBS didn’t merely follow trends—it established them, introducing a bold new aesthetic philosophy that would influence automotive design well into the 1980s.
What makes the 1970 DBS particularly fascinating is its role as both evolutionary step and revolutionary leap. While mechanically related to its predecessors, the car’s visual impact was nothing short of transformative. The angular, wedge-shaped bodywork challenged conventional notions of what an Aston Martin should look like, yet retained the quintessential British character that distinguished Newport Pagnell’s finest from their Continental rivals.
Aston martin DBS 1970 design evolution and william towns’ revolutionary styling philosophy
William Towns approached the DBS project with a radical vision that would fundamentally reshape Aston Martin’s aesthetic direction. His design philosophy embraced the emerging trend towards geometric precision and angular surfaces, moving decisively away from the flowing curves that had characterised previous decades. Towns understood that the automotive world was changing, and buyers increasingly sought vehicles that projected power and modernity through their very stance.
The DBS represented Towns’ interpretation of contemporary American muscle car aesthetics, filtered through distinctly British sensibilities. The result was a design that felt both international and unmistakably British, combining aggressive proportions with refined detailing. This approach would prove prescient, as the car’s basic silhouette remained relevant for over two decades of production.
Angular wedge profile development from DB6 predecessor
The transformation from the DB6’s gentle curves to the DBS’s sharp angles represented one of the most dramatic stylistic departures in Aston Martin’s history. Towns deliberately abandoned the classical proportions that had defined previous models, instead embracing a wedge profile that emphasised forward motion even when stationary. The nose sat low and aggressive, while the tail rose dramatically, creating a dynamic tension that suggested barely contained power.
This angular approach extended beyond mere aesthetics, serving practical aerodynamic purposes. The sharp edges helped manage airflow at high speeds, while the distinctive Kamm tail design improved stability when approaching the car’s substantial top speed potential . Every line served both form and function, demonstrating Towns’ understanding that modern supercars required scientific precision alongside visual drama.
Pop-up headlamp mechanism integration and aerodynamic considerations
The DBS’s fixed quad-headlamp arrangement, rather than pop-up units, represented a bold design choice that set it apart from many contemporary supercars. This decision reflected Towns’ commitment to honest, functional design rather than following fashionable trends. The four circular lamps, mounted behind glass covers, created a distinctive face that became instantly recognisable and thoroughly modern.
This headlamp configuration offered significant aerodynamic advantages over pop-up systems, maintaining smooth airflow across the nose at all times. The arrangement also provided superior lighting performance compared to many contemporary alternatives, demonstrating that effective design could serve both aesthetic and practical requirements without compromise.
Kamm tail design implementation and High-Speed stability enhancement
The DBS’s Kamm tail design represented sophisticated aerodynamic thinking, incorporating principles developed in motorsport to enhance high-speed stability. This truncated rear end, appearing almost unfinished to casual observers, actually provided superior aerodynamic performance compared to traditional tapered designs. The sharp cutoff created a controlled separation point for airflow, reducing drag while maintaining stability.
This aerodynamic efficiency proved crucial given the car’s performance potential. Contemporary road tests demonstrated the effectiveness of Towns’ approach, with the DBS achieving genuine high-speed stability that matched or exceeded more expensive Continental rivals. The design’s success validated Towns’ belief that functional requirements should drive aesthetic choices.
Aluminium body construction techniques and superleggera framework retention
Despite its modern appearance, the DBS retained traditional British construction methods, combining a steel framework with hand-formed aluminium panels. This approach, reminiscent of the Superleggera technique, allowed skilled craftsmen to create complex curves and sharp edges that would have proven difficult using contemporary mass-production methods. Each panel required individual attention, resulting in subtle variations that added character to every car.
The aluminium bodywork offered significant weight advantages over steel construction, contributing to the car’s impressive power-to-weight ratio. However, this traditional approach also created potential challenges for long-term durability, particularly regarding galvanic corrosion where aluminium panels met steel framework components. Understanding these construction details remains crucial for anyone considering ownership of these remarkable machines.
Tadek marek’s V8 engine architecture and performance specifications
Tadek Marek’s development of Aston Martin’s first production V8 engine represented a quantum leap in British engine technology. The 5,340cc all-aluminium unit embodied advanced engineering principles that would prove remarkably durable and adaptable. Marek’s background in racing engine development informed every aspect of the design, from the choice of materials to the sophisticated valve train architecture that enabled impressive specific power output.
The engine’s development process proved lengthy and sometimes frustrating, with early racing applications revealing weaknesses that required extensive redesign. However, this thorough development process ultimately produced an exceptionally robust powerplant that would serve Aston Martin faithfully for over three decades. The V8’s capacity for modification and tuning ensured its relevance long after its initial introduction.
5.3-litre All-Aluminium V8 development from experimental DP214
The DBS V8’s origins traced back to Marek’s experimental work on the DP214 racing project, where initial concepts were tested under extreme conditions. This motorsport heritage informed crucial design decisions, including the choice of all-aluminium construction for weight reduction and the sophisticated four-cam valve train that enabled high-revving operation. The racing development process also revealed potential weaknesses that could be addressed before production commenced.
Marek’s decision to employ wet cylinder liners allowed for easier servicing and potential capacity modifications, demonstrating forward-thinking engineering. The 90-degree V-angle provided optimal balance while accommodating the twin overhead camshaft configuration that distinguished this engine from simpler American V8s. These technical specifications positioned the Aston Martin V8 as one of the most advanced production engines of its era.
Weber 42 DCNF carburettor configuration and fuel delivery systems
The initial DBS V8 models employed mechanical fuel injection, representing cutting-edge technology for 1970. This Bosch system provided precise fuel metering that enabled both strong performance and reasonable fuel economy, crucial considerations for the American market where emissions regulations were becoming increasingly stringent. The injection system’s complexity, however, proved challenging for many service facilities unfamiliar with such advanced technology.
Later models reverted to Weber carburettors, which offered simpler maintenance requirements while sacrificing some of the injection system’s precision. The Weber 42 DCNF units provided excellent throttle response and allowed for relatively straightforward tuning modifications. This change reflected practical considerations about serviceability versus ultimate sophistication, demonstrating Aston Martin’s pragmatic approach to advanced technology implementation .
Power output analysis: 280bhp at 5000rpm versus contemporary rivals
The DBS V8’s rated output of approximately 315 horsepower placed it firmly in supercar territory, competing directly with Ferrari’s Daytona and Lamborghini’s Miura. However, these figures represented conservative estimates, with many examples producing significantly more power when properly maintained and tuned. The engine’s torque characteristics proved particularly impressive, delivering substantial low-end grunt that made the car exceptionally flexible in real-world driving conditions.
Contemporary road tests revealed performance figures that matched or exceeded more exotic rivals, despite the DBS’s greater weight and more luxurious appointments. The combination of substantial displacement and sophisticated engineering enabled the Aston Martin to compete with lighter, more specialised supercars while offering superior comfort and practicality for extended touring.
Torque characteristics and Low-End performance delivery assessment
The V8’s torque delivery proved one of its most appealing characteristics, providing effortless acceleration from low engine speeds that made the car remarkably easy to drive despite its considerable performance potential. This torque-rich character distinguished the DBS from high-revving Italian rivals that required aggressive driving techniques to access their best performance. The Aston Martin’s flexibility made it equally suitable for relaxed touring or spirited driving as conditions permitted.
Peak torque arrived at relatively low engine speeds, enabling impressive in-gear acceleration that proved particularly useful for overtaking manoeuvres. This characteristic, combined with the car’s excellent high-speed stability, made the DBS an exceptional grand touring machine capable of covering vast distances at sustained high speeds while remaining comfortable and composed.
Chassis dynamics and advanced suspension engineering solutions
The DBS introduced sophisticated suspension technology that represented a significant advancement over previous Aston Martin models. The front suspension employed double wishbones with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers, providing precise wheel control and excellent ride quality. Anti-roll bars helped manage body roll during spirited cornering while maintaining compliance over irregular road surfaces.
The rear suspension proved particularly innovative, featuring a De Dion axle arrangement that combined the advantages of independent suspension with the simplicity of a solid axle. This system, controlled by a Watts linkage, provided excellent wheel location while allowing the differential to remain mounted to the chassis rather than the axle itself. The result was reduced unsprung weight and improved handling precision compared to conventional solid axle arrangements.
Contemporary road tests praised the DBS’s handling balance, noting its ability to maintain composure at high speeds while providing engaging feedback to the driver. The suspension tuning struck an excellent compromise between comfort and performance, making the car suitable for both relaxed touring and enthusiastic cornering. This versatility reflected the car’s intended role as a true grand tourer rather than a specialised sports car.
The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion arrangement that provided direct feedback and precise control. Power assistance was available, though many enthusiasts preferred the unassisted setup for its superior feel and communication. The steering’s weighting and response contributed significantly to the car’s reputation as an engaging driver’s machine that rewarded skilled operation.
The DBS truly arrived in 1969, once Tadek Marek’s impressive new quad-cam fuel-injected 5340cc V8 was shoehorned under the bonnet. Performance was lifted to DB6 Vantage levels, but with added V8 mid-range muscularity.
Brake performance proved more than adequate for the car’s substantial performance potential, though some contemporary testers noted that the system required careful modulation for optimal effectiveness. The four-wheel disc brake arrangement with dual-circuit operation provided excellent stopping power and fade resistance, crucial attributes for a car capable of sustained high-speed operation.
Interior craftsmanship and connolly leather appointments analysis
The DBS interior represented the pinnacle of British luxury car craftsmanship, combining traditional materials with modern ergonomics. Connolly leather, sourced from the renowned Bridge of Weir tannery, covered virtually every interior surface, from the supportive seats to the dashboard and door panels. This leather’s distinctive aroma and supple feel became synonymous with British luxury motoring, creating an ambience that no synthetic alternative could replicate.
The dashboard layout prioritised functionality while maintaining aesthetic appeal, with comprehensive instrumentation arranged in a logical, driver-focused manner. The distinctive toggle switches and mechanical controls provided tactile satisfaction that reinforced the car’s handcrafted character. Every detail, from the polished metal bezels surrounding the gauges to the precisely stitched leather work, demonstrated the attention to detail that justified the DBS’s premium pricing.
Seating accommodation proved generous for both front and rear passengers, though the rear seats were best suited for shorter journeys or children. The front seats offered excellent support for extended driving sessions, with adjustment ranges that accommodated drivers of varying sizes. The driving position struck an excellent balance between comfort and control, contributing to the car’s reputation as an outstanding long-distance machine.
Storage space, while not extensive, proved adequate for weekend touring requirements. The boot offered sufficient capacity for luggage, though its shape limited the size of individual items that could be accommodated. Interior storage compartments provided space for smaller items, though their number and size reflected the car’s sporting rather than purely practical orientation.
Market positioning against ferrari daytona and lamborghini miura competition
The DBS entered a fiercely competitive market segment dominated by exotic Italian supercars that had captured enthusiasts’ imaginations worldwide. Ferrari’s 365 GTB/4 Daytona represented the pinnacle of front-engined grand touring excellence, while Lamborghini’s revolutionary Miura had established the mid-engined layout as the future of supercar design. Against these formidable rivals, the DBS needed to establish its own distinct identity and appeal.
Aston Martin’s approach focused on combining exceptional performance with superior refinement and practicality. While Italian rivals often required compromises in comfort or usability, the DBS offered genuine four-seat accommodation and touring capability without sacrificing performance credentials. This positioning proved astute, appealing to buyers who desired supercar performance without sacrificing everyday usability.
Price point strategy and exclusive clientele targeting
The DBS’s pricing strategy positioned it as a premium alternative to Italian exotics, justifying its cost through superior build quality and exclusivity. At £7,501 including purchase tax, the car commanded a significant premium over mass-produced alternatives while remaining more accessible than ultra-exotic rivals. This pricing reflected the extensive hand-craftsmanship involved in each car’s construction and the limited production volumes that ensured exclusivity.
The target clientele comprised successful professionals and entrepreneurs who appreciated the DBS’s combination of performance and discretion. Unlike more flamboyant Italian rivals, the Aston Martin could blend into sophisticated environments while providing supercar performance when desired. This duality proved particularly appealing to buyers who required versatility rather than pure exhibitionism from their high-performance machinery.
Performance benchmarking: 0-60mph acceleration and top speed comparisons
Contemporary performance testing revealed the DBS’s impressive capabilities relative to its exotic rivals. The V8-powered cars achieved 0-60mph acceleration times around 6.0 seconds, matching or bettering many Italian competitors while offering superior low-end torque for real-world driving flexibility. Top speed figures approaching 160mph placed the DBS firmly in supercar territory, though ultimate maximum velocity proved less important than the car’s ability to sustain high speeds comfortably.
The DBS’s performance characteristics differed markedly from its rivals, emphasising effortless acceleration and high-speed stability over ultimate peak figures. This approach reflected the car’s grand touring mission, prioritising long-distance comfort and capability over pure track-focused performance. The result was a machine that proved more usable and enjoyable in daily driving than many more extreme alternatives.
Build quality assessment versus italian supercar manufacturing standards
British craftsmanship traditions gave the DBS distinct advantages in terms of interior quality and attention to detail compared to many Italian rivals. The hand-assembled nature of production allowed for individual attention to each car, resulting in fit and finish quality that often exceeded mass-produced alternatives. However, this traditional approach also created potential reliability concerns that more modern manufacturing methods might have avoided.
The DBS’s construction quality proved generally superior to contemporary Italian supercars in terms of interior appointments and weather sealing, though electrical reliability sometimes lagged behind German alternatives. Understanding these relative strengths and weaknesses helps explain the car’s market positioning and appeal to buyers who prioritised luxury and exclusivity over pure performance statistics.
Buy with caution and you’ll be the proud owner of one of the finest GT cars ever made. The DBS altered Aston Martin’s direction, steering the brand towards the high-performance luxury supercars that became popular in the 1970s and beyond.
Production legacy and collectible status in modern classic car market
The DBS’s production run encompassed approximately 400 V8-powered examples, making these cars significantly rarer than many contemporary supercars. This limited production, combined with the model’s historical significance and distinctive styling, has elevated the DBS to blue-chip collectible status in recent years. Values have appreciated substantially as collectors recognise the car’s importance in Aston Martin’s evolution and automotive history more broadly.
Modern classic car enthusiasts particularly value the DBS for its combination of rarity, performance, and aesthetic appeal. The car represents the final flowering of traditional British craftsmanship methods before manufacturing rationalisation transformed the industry. This historical significance, combined with the model’s undeniable visual impact, ensures continued collector interest and appreciation potential
The car’s influence on subsequent automotive design cannot be overstated, with its angular aesthetic inspiring countless imitators and establishing design principles that remained relevant well into the twenty-first century. Contemporary auction results demonstrate strong buyer interest, with pristine examples commanding prices that reflect both their rarity and historical importance. The DBS represents a unique moment when British engineering ambition matched Continental sophistication, creating machines that remain compelling decades after their creation.
Ownership considerations for modern enthusiasts require careful evaluation of maintenance requirements and parts availability. While specialist knowledge is essential for proper care, the rewards of DBS ownership include access to one of motoring’s most distinctive and characterful grand touring machines. The car’s combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity creates an ownership experience that few modern alternatives can replicate, explaining its enduring appeal among discerning collectors.
Market trends suggest continued appreciation for well-maintained examples, particularly those retaining original specifications and comprehensive documentation. The DBS’s position as a transitional model between classic and modern eras enhances its appeal to collectors who appreciate both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary performance capabilities. This dual character ensures the model’s continued relevance in the classic car market.
Investment potential remains strong for pristine examples, though buyers must carefully assess condition and authenticity given the model’s limited production numbers and the potential for modifications during less valuable periods. Professional inspection by marque specialists proves essential for anyone considering ownership, as restoration costs can quickly exceed purchase prices for cars requiring extensive work.
The DBS’s legacy extends beyond mere collectibility, representing a philosophical approach to automotive design that prioritised character and craftsmanship over pure efficiency. This philosophy, while economically challenging for mass production, created machines with personality and distinction that modern manufacturing methods struggle to replicate. Understanding this context helps explain why these cars continue to captivate enthusiasts despite their age and complexity.
The first generation of the DBS (known as the series one or Mk1) features louvres behind the rear side windows to aid airflow through the cabin. This was replaced with a single louvre above the bootlid in 1970 when the series two or Mk2 appeared.
Production variations add another layer of complexity to the collecting equation, with early and late examples offering different characteristics and market appeal. Series one cars with their distinctive rear quarter louvres command particular attention from purists, while series two examples provide more refined driving experiences through various detail improvements. Understanding these distinctions proves crucial for making informed purchasing decisions in today’s competitive classic car market.
The DBS’s enduring appeal stems from its successful balance of seemingly contradictory requirements: exotic performance with everyday usability, traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering, and aggressive styling with sophisticated restraint. Few automobiles have achieved such harmonious integration of diverse elements, explaining why the DBS continues to attract new generations of enthusiasts who appreciate automotive excellence in its purest form.