An Aston Martin DB2/4 with a true underdog tale will be one of the highlights of Silverstone Auctions' Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show sale, taking place on 15-16 November. It is estimated at £130-160,000.
The DB2/4 was bought new by Frank Defty in February 1954 from Kirk & Kirk of Putney and, with hardly any modifications, was entered into the 2000-mile RAC Rally.
By May 1954 the car was enrolled in the very first car race at the Aintree Circuit, where Defty lined-up against the best and brightest of the racing world: Colin Chapman, Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori. The Aston finished 24th of 25 starters due to Chapman's retirement after a crash.
The car was campaigned throughout 1954 until it was sold a year later, going on to survive a garage fire in 1978 which prompted its restoration. It was then placed in storage, where it was found in fine condition in 2007 before being lightly recommissioned by its current owner.
Paul Campbell, sales manager of Silverstone Auctions, said: "This is an amazing car with an equally amazing history, and the vendor's enthusiasm for the car is infectious. The car is completely authentic, ready to be enjoyed and begin a new chapter of its fascinating history."
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Greg MacLeman is a contributor to and former Features Editor of Classic & Sports Car, and drives a restored and uprated 1974 Triumph 2500TC