An excellent example of the model. Matching numbers, Mille Miglia eligible, and benefitting from extensive recent investment by a leading marque specialist.

Introduced in 1953, the Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk I built upon the success of the earlier DB2, offering increased practicality without sacrificing the sporting character Aston Martin had become known for. With the addition of occasional rear seats, a taller roofline, and a distinctive wraparound rear window, the DB2/4 marked the brand’s first true attempt at a usable four-seater grand tourer.

Under the bonnet sat Aston Martin’s 2.6-litre or, more commonly by 1954, the uprated 2.9-litre straight-six engine, derived from the Lagonda twin-cam unit originally designed by W.O. Bentley. Producing around 140bhp, the 2.9 offered confident performance for the period, with strong torque delivery and a top speed of approximately 120mph. Power was delivered through a four-speed manual gearbox, with a chassis featuring independent front suspension and a live rear axle, combining to deliver a composed and refined driving experience.

Bodywork was crafted by Mulliners of Birmingham, with most examples taking the form of a two-door saloon, though a small number of drophead coupés were also built. One of the more innovative features of the DB2/4 was its rear hatch, which provided access to a surprisingly practical luggage area, an uncommon design choice at the time and one of the earliest uses of the hatchback format in a production sports car.

Visually, the DB2/4 retained the elegance of its predecessor while adding subtle changes such as a one-piece windscreen, raised headlamp positions, and minor revisions to the grille and rear end to accommodate its increased versatility. The interior is typical of the era, with leather-trimmed seats, a wood-veneered dashboard, and a clear focus on craftsmanship.

Registered ‘EJE 124’, this particular Mk I DB2/4 is chassis number LML/881, one of just 448 examples built. Supplied new on 30th April 1955 by E.H. Organ & Sons Ltd, the car retains its original 3.0-litre engine (VB6J/353) and is matching numbers throughout. According to the original Aston Martin Ltd Build Sheet, the car was specified with Alfin brake drums and side jacks, and originally finished in Blue Haze with a Grey leather interior trimmed with Blue piping.

Sympathetically restored in recent years, LML/881 remains in outstanding condition and is eligible for the Mille Miglia, further underlining its historic significance.

Under Aston Martin specialist ownership, the car has benefitted from an estimated £120,000 worth of further expenditure by Aston Workshop. Recent works include a sympathetic repaint, partial retiming with as much of the original leather retained, and a complete new carpet set. The majority of investment has focused on mechanical restoration. The engine and gearbox have been fully overhauled, while the SU carburettors have been rebuilt to ensure reliable performance. A new lightweight aluminium fuel tank has been installed, along with a new fuel pump and lines.

Braking performance has been upgraded, with a new master cylinder, new brake lines and cylinders, re-lined shoes, and treated drums throughout. The electrical system has also been fully refreshed, including a new wiring harness and testing of all electrical components.

Since the restoration, the car has benefitted from a fresh engine rebuild and is currently in its running-in phase, further ensuring it is on the button mechanically.

Offered with its UK V5C Registration Document, British Motor Industry Heritage Trust (BMIHT) Certificate, original Aston Martin Ltd Build Sheet and Service Record, and a file of restoration invoices, this is a stand-out example of the DB2/4 Mk I.

As noted in Autocar magazine at the time:

“The Aston Martin DB2/4 is a sports car with a very definite appeal. It has full saloon car comfort, coupled with performance and roadholding of a very high order.”

The DB2/4 Mk I represents a significant moment in Aston Martin’s history: a refined, well-engineered grand tourer that blended performance, practicality, and elegant styling. Chassis LML/881 stands out as an excellent example of the model. Matching numbers, Mille Miglia eligible, and benefitting from extensive recent investment by a leading marque specialist. Now freshly rebuilt and in its running-in phase, it is ready to be enjoyed with confidence. This is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the marque’s most charming cars.