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

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