We've been trying to dodge the atrocious weather and take photographs it seems for days now, so our apologies as these are simply "make do and mend" until we're able to take some with the roof down and the steering wheel in its correct stationary position!

David Brown's acquisition of Tickford Ltd in 1953 led to bodywork for the revised Aston Martin DB2/4 Mark II, launched at the London Motor Show in October 1955, being manufactured by the Newport Pagnell coachbuilder.

While mechanically little different from its predecessor, the Mark II was readily identifiable by its subtly altered lines, the most significant change being a ¾" (19mm) increase in roof height that afforded greater headroom, while interior improvements included better seats and a proper fly-off handbrake.

The Aston six had been enlarged from 2.6 to 3.0 litres during production of the DB2/4 and continued unchanged in the Mark II, though a special series VB6J engine (suffixed 'L' or 'L1') producing 165bhp was available as an option. DB2/4 Mark II chassis numbers ranged from '1101' to '1299', a total of 199 cars.

The Mark II was produced up to October 1957. Saloons accounted for the majority, with at least 16 built as drophead coupés, 34 as fixed-head coupés, and four supplied as chassis only.

The rare Aston Martin offered here is one of only nine right-hand drive drophead coupés built on the DB2/4 Mark II chassis and the last to be completed. According to the accompanying copy Guarantee Form, 'AM300/1280' left the factory in March 1957 finished in Pale Grey with Blue/Grey Connolly hide interior. The VB6L cylinder head assembly, twin exhaust system, and a DB3S type steering wheel are the only items of special equipment listed.

This Aston was retailed via Brooklands Ltd and first owned by one J D McKechnie of Cheshire. Two further owners are listed: Mr Frank Muir, believed to be the comedy scriptwriter and TV presenter of that name; and Mr Russell Burton of Oxshott, Surrey. Mr Burton is the last owner recorded in the original old-style logbook, which also lists several previous owners.

The car also comes with a photocopied advertisement, published in Thoroughbred & Classic Cars in February 1980, which states that it was in excellent original condition and had been maintained by Forshaw's and R S Williams. By this time it had been repainted Platinum White. Typed notes on file state that the car was completely dismantled for a full rebuild, including the engine, transmission and brakes in 1988/89 at 101,616 miles.

Now finished in blue with cream leather trim, this smart Aston is supplied with a factory build sheet, old style buff logbook and V5C registration document. With only some 16 dropheads built of the DB2/4 Mark II chassis, this is indeed a rare Aston Martin.

We would be delighted to arrange a viewing at our Rudgwick (West Sussex) showroom or to discuss this Aston Martin in further detail, please contact Julien Sumner on 07788 856700.

‍