Newbie question on purchasing a DBS

[steve meltzer]

Thinking of purchasing a DBS. This would be my first Aston, tho' I've had other exotics in the past. Anything specific I should watch for? Any decent examples around at this time? thanx steve meltzer..."I may be wrong, but I'm never in doubt"

[Boxer]

Rust, rust is a major issue on all the DBS's. Also make sure oil pressure is right. If not you could be looking at major $$$ for an engine rebuild.

[Kip Ewing]

Originally Posted by steve meltzer

Thinking of purchasing a DBS. This would be my first Aston, tho' I've had other exotics in the past. Anything specific I should watch for? Any decent examples around at this time? thanx steve meltzer..."I may be wrong, but I'm never in doubt"

The most important thing to keep in mind is this;

A DBS has essentially all of the same parts as a DB-5.
It costs exactly the same to restore and maintain a DB-S as it does a 5.
Sheetmetal work is sheetmetal work, trim work is trim work, paint is paint, same engine.

However; the market places a higher value on a DB-5.
For this reason, an 'entry-level' DB-S can be had cheaper that a DB-5, but it will cost as much to put right.

The other factor is that since the DB-S has not commanded the premium of 4/5/6s, they have not usually been the subject of as much owner investment. Therefore, the ones that are out there usually need more work.

I own a DB-S because I think they are beautiful on their own merits.

Before I took my car off the road for a full skins-off restoration, I use to track the car. One thing to be aware of is the cars are a lot heavier than a 4/5/6. It's not spritely on a road course. It's still a lot of fun to drift around, but it is more of a continent-crosser than track car.

Anyway, one man's opinion...........

[Boxer]

Originally Posted by Kip Ewing

The most important thing to keep in mind is this;

A DBS has essentially all of the same parts as a DB-5.
It costs exactly the same to restore and maintain a DB-S as it does a 5.
Sheetmetal work is sheetmetal work, trim work is trim work, paint is paint, same engine.

However; the market places a higher value on a DB-5.
For this reason, an 'entry-level' DB-S can be had cheaper that a DB-5, but it will cost as much to put right.

The other factor is that since the DB-S has not commanded the premium of 4/5/6s, they have not usually been the subject of as much owner investment. Therefore, the ones that are out there usually need more work.

I own a DB-S because I think they are beautiful on their own merits.

Before I took my car off the road for a full skins-off restoration, I use to track the car. One thing to be aware of is the cars are a lot heavier than a 4/5/6. It's not spritely on a road course. It's still a lot of fun to drift around, but it is more of a continent-crosser than track car.

Anyway, one man's opinion...........

Roughly, what does a full restoration run cost wise on a DBS now?

[Kip Ewing]

Originally Posted by Boxer

Roughly, what does a full restoration run cost wise on a DBS now?

That's pretty hard to answer.
Wild cards are body and powertrain.
If you have a load of rust to fix, the body has to get cut off (Which is what you'd want to do anyway, if you are going to get deep into it. Sounds scary, but it isn't.)

Like anything, it's a matter of how many problems need to be fixed and to what standard you want it executed to.

It can go 6 figures in a hurry if you want perfection.

[Boxer]

Originally Posted by Kip Ewing

That's pretty hard to answer.
Wild cards are body and powertrain.
If you have a load of rust to fix, the body has to get cut off (Which is what you'd want to do anyway, if you are going to get deep into it. Sounds scary, but it isn't.)

Like anything, it's a matter of how many problems need to be fixed and to what standard you want it executed to.

It can go 6 figures in a hurry if you want perfection.

I am in the process of restoring a Ferrari Daytona so a bit familiar with the cost situation. Amazing how fast it can add up.....

[Global Autosports]

Check Global Autosports, they have a nice selection of Aston Martin DBS Cars for sale.

[catz]

I have just finished a 69 DBS for a client and really did not have to take off the outer skins. Give me your Email and I will send photos. We also upgraded this car to a modern 5 speed which really helps in the overall drivability of the car. Look us up at www.coolcatz.com.
Cheers Tom Z.
Hey Kip did you finally finish your car? We spoke many years ago when I first started this DBS. Forward me your Email and I will share photos!