Among the many historic and iconic vehicles that Aston Martin has crafted over its 60-plus years, the DBR1 stands out as the pinnacle. This model secured multiple victories in high-profile races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, establishing Aston Martin’s reputation alongside automotive giants like Jaguar and Bentley. Notably, the specific car known as the DBR1/1 has just made history by selling for a record-breaking $22.6 million at the Monterey auction, making it the most valuable British car ever sold.
RM Sotheby’s has described this vehicle as “the most accurate example of what is arguably the most important Aston Martin ever manufactured.” The car has an illustrious history, having been driven by racing legends such as Sir Stirling Moss, Bruce McLaren, and Carroll Shelby, making it a unique gem in British motorsport heritage.
To this day, the DBR1 remains the only overall champion for Aston Martin at Le Mans, triumphing over formidable competitors like Ferrari while operating on a significantly smaller budget. This achievement underlines its importance in automotive history and has allowed it to surpass the previous record, previously held by a 1955 Jaguar D-Type, which fetched $21.8 million.
Modern endurance racing owes a great deal to the groundbreaking achievements of this car, especially those that have emerged from across the Atlantic.
The DBR1 captivated many at the auction and is now set to be preserved, ensuring that its rich racing legacy continues. It’s difficult to envision a vehicle with a more compelling history, and for Aston Martin, this model represents the pinnacle of their designs, transforming the brand’s trajectory and shaping its future.
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