Persuaders Aston DBS sets new record

The Bonhams Aston Martin Works sale was the location for another round of bumper sales, going into what again promises to be a summer of big auction results. Overall sales at the annual event at Works Service in Newport Pagnell totalled more than £8.7m, selling more than 50 motor cars, while the star of the day was undoubtedly a very famous Aston Martin DBS.

The mustard coloured DBS sold for £533,500, an astonishing result, clearly bolstered by the car's seen on TV status. It starred in the hit British television series 'The Persuaders!' and held pride of place at the front of the auction hall, attracting immense interest from fans of the show and Aston Martin enthusiasts alike. The DBS was modified specifically for its TV role, in which it featured prominently in almost all of the show’s 24 episodes. Co-starring Roger Moore and Tony Curtis, the car was arguably the third ‘star’ of the hit series.

Other big sellers were included the factory Vantage prototype 'DP217' 1963 Aston Martin DB5 project, which sold for £393,500 – more than four times its highest estimate – as the gavel came down the closing bid was met with applause from the room. The top lot, a very rare DB6 Mark 2 Volante sold at £757,500, still impressive even if it's one of only 21 examples built.

James Knight, Bonhams Group Motoring Director, said: 'The sale has been one of surprise and delight. From selling a DB5 Sports Saloon project at four times its estimate, to setting world records with ‘star’ car, 'The Persuaders!' Aston Martin DBS. As ever, in its 15th year the Aston Martin Works sale has been truly tremendous. After 15 years of running this sale we still continue to enjoy our very special partnership with Aston Martin, working collectively to deliver the right results for the brand and our clients.

Paul Spires, General Sales Manager at Aston Martin Works, added: 'The Bonhams auction weekend has once again more than lived up to expectations. The uniquely sociable ‘garden party’ atmosphere certainly seems to have helped some of the 2,500 or so people who joined us here at Newport Pagnell take the plunge. With many exceptional sports cars sold, and bids coming in from right around the world, it’s clear that Bonhams’ Aston Martin Sale is, more than ever, a key fixture of the classic car world.'