Aston Martin DB5: Hire Guide
The Aston Martin DB5 (1963–1965) is the most culturally famous British grand tourer, immortalised by Goldfinger (1964). A 4.0 L straight-six, 282 bhp, hand-rolled aluminium body. Genuine cars are concours-only; many owners offer DB5 tribute / replica builds for hire instead.
At a glance
The Aston Martin DB5 (1963–1965) is the most culturally famous British grand tourer, immortalised by Goldfinger (1964). A 4.0 L straight-six, 282 bhp, hand-rolled aluminium body. Genuine cars are concours-only; many owners offer DB5 tribute / replica builds for hire instead.
Specifications
1963–1965
- Years produced
- 1963–1965 (≈ 1,059 built)
- Engine
- 4.0 L Tadek Marek DOHC straight-six
- Power
- 282 bhp (Vantage: 314 bhp)
- Body styles
- Coupé, Convertible (Volante), Shooting Brake (12 built)
- Top speed
- ≈ 145 mph
- Drivetrain
- Front engine, RWD, ZF 5-speed manual (BorgWarner auto optional)
Originals vs tributes
Genuine DB5s are worth high six- to seven-figure sums and are almost never offered for self-drive. Most BookAclassic hires are well-built tributes or replicas. They typically use a DB6 floorpan or a custom chassis, an original-spec straight-six, and faithful body panels. Listings should disclose this clearly.
What it's like to drive
Long, deliberate gearshifts, heavy unassisted steering (power assist optional), a noisy and slightly highly-strung straight-six. Best at touring pace on open A-roads. Modern bumpers and small mirrors make town driving harder than it looks.
Cultural appearances
- Driven by Sean Connery's James Bond in Goldfinger (1964) and Thunderball (1965); reappeared in GoldenEye, Skyfall, Spectre, and No Time to Die.
- Frequently described as 'the most famous car in the world'.
What occasions it suits
- James Bond–themed events and stag/hen parties
- Corporate film and TV shoots
- Premium weddings (chauffeured)
- Concours appearances
Live Aston Martin DB5 listings
Frequently asked questions
- Can I really hire a Goldfinger DB5?
- Original cars are extremely rare to hire. Most listings are tribute builds. If you need an original for film or editorial, contact the owner directly and confirm provenance.
- How much to hire one?
- Tributes are £800–£1,500/day chauffeured. Original cars when offered start around £2,500/day and are usually chauffeur-only.
Related models
Where to hire one
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Last reviewed 2026-05-14