Highlighting the DB6 Vantage were its significantly enhanced handling, outstanding adhesion, and highly effective braking capabilities. The Aston achieved a mean maximum speed of 148mph and a standing quarter-mile time of 14.5 seconds, earning it the distinction of being the fastest four-seater.
Cruising at 120mph, the car exhibited the same composed demeanor as other powerful vehicles at 80mph, a quality that garnered praise from Autocar’s writer, who deemed it “practically ideal” for high-speed open-road touring—a sentiment echoed by many.
The 4.0-liter DOHC engine retained its standard triple-SU carburetor setup, but in the Vantage specification, it delivered an impressive 325bhp with a 9.4:1 compression ratio. The ZF five-speed manual gearbox from the preceding model was carried over, and ‘Selectaride’ driver-adjustable damping was a standard feature. Notably, optional power-assisted steering became available for the first time. Saloon production totaled 1,327 units, inclusive of seven shooting brake conversions by Harold Radford.
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