With only 411 examples produced, the Aston Martin DB2 is not what could ever be classed as a common car. We rarely see them here at Barn Finds, so to have two appear on our desks within days of each other is a rare treat. This 1953 model is a structurally sound and complete vehicle that needs restoring. Our other recent find was another 1953 model that was written about in this excellent article by our own Jim ODonnell. With tidy examples now fetching some fantastic prices, it is a project that would appear to be well worth tackling when you consider that this one is going to auction with No Reserve. It has been listed for sale here at Gooding & Company and will go under the hammer on August 13th and 14th at Pebble Beach, California. The auction estimate has been placed at $120,000 – $150,000. All images copyright and courtesy of Gooding & Company. Photos by Brian Henniker.

When you look at the lines that Aston Martin created with the DB2, the word that seems to spring to mind to describe them is “elegant.” They are smooth and flowing and probably endow the Aston with an appearance more akin to a Grand Tourer than a stereotypical sports car. This one rolled out of the factory wearing Moonbeam Grey paint, and it appears that this still graces its flanks. The vehicle has been in static storage for decades, and even with the layer of dust that has accumulated, it is evident that a repaint will be on the agenda as part of the restoration process. I can’t spot any rust issues, and the seller mentions none. Encouragingly, any visible corrosion seems to be of the dry surface variety, suggesting that the storage environment has been pretty favorable. The panels are straight, and the glass is good, so the cosmetic aspects of this restoration look like they could be pretty straightforward.

This DB2 isn’t numbers-matching because its engine bay would have originally housed a DOHC six-cylinder unit with a capacity of 2,580cc and a power output of 125hp. At some point, that motor was removed, and a later 2,922cc version of the same engine from a DB2/4 has been substituted. This upgrade would have offered some noticeable performance gains because it provided the driver with 140hp under the right foot. The original motor would have pushed the DB2 to a top speed of around 115mph, but this new one should have seen it sail beyond 120mph. In keeping with its performance credentials, the power from that beautiful six finds its way to the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual transmission. Apart from the absence of the air cleaner assembly, everything in the engine bay appears to be present and accounted for. The engine’s condition is unknown, so the buyer will need to inspect it carefully before considering hitting the key to coax it back to life.

The Aston’s interior is a surprise packet because its condition is a lot better than I expected. The seats are upholstered in Red leather with Grey piping, and they appear to be free from major flaws or problems. I believe that some careful cleaning and conditioning could see them returned to their former glory without the need for new covers. The carpet has a few faded spots, but there’s nothing that would justify replacement if the buyer intends to retain the vehicle as an original survivor. Some aspects of the dash and the wheel will demand attention, but overall, this aspect of the restoration could prove to be pretty affordable.

The limited build number of the Aston Martin DB2 means that restored examples can sell for impressive figures. Prices beyond $200,000 are common, while pristine examples will top $300,000. The record currently stands at $482,876 for a car that sold in 2017. When you look at this Aston’s overall condition and its potential value once restored, it is a project that is well worth considering.