Early Beginnings (1913-1920)
- Founding and First Cars: Initially, Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford established Aston Martin in 1913, driven by Lionel Martin’s successful runs at the Aston Hill Climb in a Singer car. They promptly built their first car, ‘Coal Scuttle,’ in 1914.
- World War I Impact: Subsequently, World War I interrupted car production as the factory shifted focus to military production.
Interwar Development (1920-1939)
- Post-War Recovery: Following World War I, the company faced financial challenges, yet continued producing cars, including models for the 1922 French Grand Prix.
- Change in Ownership: Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, despite frequent ownership changes due to financial struggles, Aston Martin persistently developed new models.
Post World War II (1940-1960)
- David Brown Era Begins: Then, in 1947, industrialist David Brown acquired the company, heralding the ‘DB’ series with the DB1 in 1948.
- Racing Successes: Aston Martin made a significant mark in racing with the DBR1, notably winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1959.
Expansion and Iconic Models (1960-1980)
- Iconic DB5: During the 1960s, the company introduced the DB5, famously linked with James Bond.
- Financial Challenges: Despite the success of iconic models, the company has faced financial trials and underwent several ownership changes.
Modern Era (1980-Present)
- Ford Motor Company’s Involvement: In the 1980s, Ford Motor Company took a stake in Aston Martin, leading to a modernization in production.
- 21st Century Growth: Subsequently, the 2000s marked a resurgence for Aston Martin with the introduction of models like the Vantage, DB9, and the DBX SUV.
- Racing Legacy Continues: Moreover, the company continues its involvement in racing, participating in Formula 1 and other motorsports.
Aston Martin’s Racing History
- Early Racing Ventures</strong>: Initially, Aston Martin entered racing in the 1920s, focusing primarily on endurance racing.
- Le Mans and World Sportscar Championship: Particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, the company enjoyed a golden era in racing, including a victory at Le Mans.
- Recent Motorsport Ventures: More recently, the company has actively participated in various forms of motorsport, including Formula 1.
Looking to buy, sell, value, trade or consign an Aston Martin please contact us by calling 310-399-3990 or by email at info@westcoastclassics.com
