1950 Aston Martin DB2 ‘First Sanction’
After a producting and racing a few prototypes, David Brown launched the DB2 in 1950 as his first real sports car. The initial run of 50 or so cars are called ‘First Sanction’ since they have a unique three-piece grille and numerous other unique details. By 1951, these were lost for the final production DB2 shape which is much more common.
Along with the unique grill, the ‘First Sanction’ cars are distinguished by their side extractor grilles, bumper strips, twin fuel fillers and flush-mounted windows.
Since the ‘First Sanction’ group includes some of the earliest DB2, many were used as factory development and press cars. Three factory team cars were produced with the three-piece grill, that were later updated to the 1951 design.
In Detail
submitted by | Richard Owen |
type | Series Production Car |
engine | Water Cooled Inline-6 |
position | Front Longituidnal |
aspiration | Natual |
block material | Cast Iron |
valvetrain | DOHC, 2 Valves per Cyl |
displacement | 2580 cc / 157.44 in³ |
bore | 79 mm / 3.1 in |
stroke | 90 mm / 3.5 in |
compression | 8.5:1 |
power | 93.2 kw / 125 bhp @ 5000 rpm |
specific output | 48.45 bhp per litre |
driven wheels | RWD |
front brakes | Girling Hydrualic Drums |
rear brakes | Girling Hydrualic Drums |
f suspension | Trailing Arms |
r suspension | Live Axle |
transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
Auction Sales History
1950 Aston Martin DB2 LML/50/13 – sold for €364,000 The 13th DB2 produced; one of 50 triple grille “washboard” examples. Fourth in class finish at the inaugural 1950 Sebring 6 Hours of Endurance. Expert restoration by marque specialists Steel Wings. A 2010 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance award winner. Displayed at the Simeone Automotive Museum.
Auction Source: 2014 Paris by RM Auctions
Auction Source: 2014 Paris by RM Auctions
1951 Aston Martin DB2 Coupe LML/50/44 – sold for $292,600 One of the first 49 ‘Washboard’ DB2s. Known history from new *Custom period coachwork modifications. Eligible for many retrospective rallies including the Mille Miglia. Offered for sale publicly for the first time ever.
Auction Source: 2013 Quail Lodge Auction by Bonhams
Auction Source: 2013 Quail Lodge Auction by Bonhams
1950 Aston Martin DB2 Coupe LML/50/13 – sold for $308,000 The thirteenth DB2 produced; one of 50 triple grille “washboard” examples built. Part of Briggs Cunningham’s 1950 three-car entry at Sebring. Expert restoration by marque specialists Steel Wings. Complete with FIA HTP passport.
Auction Source: Monterey 2012 by RM Auctions
Auction Source: Monterey 2012 by RM Auctions