ON THE ROAD: AN OWNER’S VIEW

Matthew tells us that driving the DB6 is “tremendous fun, although at times on the abysmal Northland roads I feel a bit like Mr Toad jalopying about.”

Indeed, many drivers tend to describe the DB range of Astons in much the same terms as those Ettore Bugatti once used to describe W O Bentley’s creations as “high speed lorries.” Certainly, those who haven’t driven many cars from the DB6’s era will find that there’s a lot going on when you hit the road. Despite that, the DB6 handles very well, cornering surprisingly flat despite the fact that the car’s overall design is based upon ‘50s technology – although in this respect, the aftermarket power steering system on Matthew’s car aids handling and around town manoeuvrability.

“Fast progress is achievable on winding roads,” says Matthew, “and, as I’m constantly reminded when I drive older cars after getting out of something modern and stiffly sprung, there’s a lot to be said for compliance, in both tyres and the suspension.”

Allied to the car’s handling qualities, the rebuilt six-cylinder engine provides sufficient power with plenty of torque, while the electronic fuel injection set-up allows for turbine smooth operation.

“Modern traffic gets a little surprised, I think, when I pull away from or overtake them,” said Matthew. Indeed, contemporary 0-60mph tests had the DB6 Vantage only two-tenths of a second behind the DBS V8 (5.9 as opposed to 6.1). Until it’s properly warmed up, the Aston’s ZF gearbox can impede rapid progress and with its lack of spring bias to aid ham-fisted changes, it does take some time to get used to.

“The gearstick sort of waggles around between gears and you have to be very precise finding each one, which can be tricky on a bumpy winding road throwing your hand off kilter … but then that’s why old cars are so engaging to drive,” said Matthew.