Body & Paint
The key factors surrounding this decision rest on the need for originality, amount of damage (if any) to be rectified and the availability of replacement panels.
On all Bespoke models we would generally replace the entire panel work forward of the A-Post and from the B-post to the rear with a totally new panel structure, leaving only the roof as original. Door skins are routinely replaced, and the same, depending on their state, for bonnet and boot.
Rigorous attention to detail, careful shaping, filing, priming, flatting and guide coating is necessary to achieve the end results demanded of a Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 or MKIII.
Your Bespoke model will also benefit from a full bare metal respray to bring it back to better-than-new condition. We use the latest computer based technology, decades of skill and experience, together with an enormous selection of paint codes to offer the widest range of colours imaginable.
Bumpers and window trims etc are all re-chromed to the highest possible standard on all Bespoke models.
Panel replacement versus repair?
The key factors surrounding this decision rest on the need for originality, amount of damage (if any) to be rectified and the availability of replacement panels.
On all Bespoke models we would generally replace the entire panel work forward of the A-Post and from the B-post to the rear with a totally new panel structure, leaving only the roof as original. Door skins are routinely replaced, and the same, depending on their state, for bonnet and boot.
Rigorous attention to detail, careful shaping, filing, priming, flatting and guide coating is necessary to achieve the end results demanded of a Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 or MKIII.
Your Bespoke model will also benefit from a full bare metal respray to bring it back to better-than-new condition. We use the latest computer based technology, decades of skill and experience, together with an enormous selection of paint codes to offer the widest range of colours imaginable.
Bumpers and window trims etc are all re-chromed to the highest possible standard on all Bespoke models.
Chassis
Dealing with the chassis correctly is paramount to a successful bespoke project.
The chassis of the DB2 is of a tubular steel construction, it will be stripped bare and shot blasted to reveal any areas of corrosion. The corroded sections are then cut out and replaced. All internal sections are treated with weld-through primer.
The result is an incredibly well protected chassis that forms the basis of our Bespoke DB2 models.
The chassis of the DB2 is of a tubular steel construction, it will be stripped bare and shot blasted to reveal any areas of corrosion. The corroded sections are then cut out and replaced. All internal sections are treated with weld-through primer.
The result is an incredibly well protected chassis that forms the basis of our Bespoke DB2 models.
Engine
The following outlines the work undertaken to upgrade & enhance a Bespoke DB2/4 engine:
After a complete strip down and thorough examination of all parts, components are either refurbished or replaced as necessary.
The engine block is also line-bored to ensure that the new solid main bearing 'cheeses' and new billet steel crankshaft are in perfect alignment with the block and new forged connecting rods.
The original rear mechanical main oil seal (a known weak point on these engines) is dramatically improved by the conversion to a high performance silicone seal.
A particularly valuable upgrade is the modification of the oil galleries combined with the fitting of a new high output oil pump to increase oil flow.
The cylinder head is fitted with hardened valve seats suitable for unleaded fuel. Larger diameter inlet and exhaust valves are also fitted along with associated parts such as new phosphor bronze valve guides, springs, collets and cam followers.
The head is 'gas-flowed' to improve performance and the compression ratio raised to an optimal level for road use. We also increase the cylinder bore size and fit new forged pistons.
Along with the above mechanical upgrades the engine benefits from 'ASTON WORKSHOP' high performance camshafts in conjunction with triple Weber DCOE40 carburettors and electronic ignition, all of which help to boost overall engine performance and reliability.
A detailed and very careful engine build is then carried out with every part meticulously checked, re-engineered and assembled.
Finally, a comprehensive and extensive in-house dynamometer testing programme will confirm the desired performance figures of 195 BHP and over 200 ft/lbs of torque!
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This is not the only option open to Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 & MKIII owners, but rather it highlights the attention to detail afforded to these builds and the engine in particular. Engine requirements and final specification can be stipulated by the owner after consultation with our industry leading experts.
At Aston Workshop we can produce engines which far surpass original reliability and performance.
With the benefit of modern materials, machining techniques and oils we regularly build high performance engines to a high specification, a perfect example of what can be achieved when starting from scratch, using modern upgraded parts and appropriate modifications.
The following outlines the work undertaken to upgrade & enhance a Bespoke DB2/4 engine:
After a complete strip down and thorough examination of all parts, components are either refurbished or replaced as necessary.
The engine block is also line-bored to ensure that the new solid main bearing 'cheeses' and new billet steel crankshaft are in perfect alignment with the block and new forged connecting rods.
The original rear mechanical main oil seal (a known weak point on these engines) is dramatically improved by the conversion to a high performance silicone seal.
A particularly valuable upgrade is the modification of the oil galleries combined with the fitting of a new high output oil pump to increase oil flow.
The cylinder head is fitted with hardened valve seats suitable for unleaded fuel. Larger diameter inlet and exhaust valves are also fitted along with associated parts such as new phosphor bronze valve guides, springs, collets and cam followers.
The head is 'gas-flowed' to improve performance and the compression ratio raised to an optimal level for road use. We also increase the cylinder bore size and fit new forged pistons.
Along with the above mechanical upgrades the engine benefits from 'ASTON WORKSHOP' high performance camshafts in conjunction with triple Weber DCOE40 carburettors and electronic ignition, all of which help to boost overall engine performance and reliability.
A detailed and very careful engine build is then carried out with every part meticulously checked, re-engineered and assembled.
Finally, a comprehensive and extensive in-house dynamometer testing programme will confirm the desired performance figures of 195 BHP and over 200 ft/lbs of torque!
--------------------------------------------------
This is not the only option open to Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 & MKIII owners, but rather it highlights the attention to detail afforded to these builds and the engine in particular. Engine requirements and final specification can be stipulated by the owner after consultation with our industry leading experts.
Suspension
By adjusting damper settings, different suspension settings and spring rates and optimising these in conjunction with modern radial tyres, it becomes possible to tailor the handling characteristics to suit.
Replacing rear lever arm dampers with telescopic dampers, eliminates what has now become an obsolete component. Furthermore, it is yet another significant step forward in achieving modern standards of ride comfort, safety and handling.
We are also working towards being able to offer in-car adjustable dampers on Bespoke models. This offers exciting possibilities allowing the driver to optimise handling according to road conditions at the time.
Finally, there is the wider question of tyre choice. At the end of the day, this is a personal decision, and while we will recommend certain options that we know work well, the choice inevitably must be down to the owner.
Each model in the Bespoke range has a slightly different set-up and each individual car can be set to the specification of the owner.
This is not a decision to be taken lightly, and you will be fully informed and advised by our expert team at the time of commissioning.
Modern gas filled dampers (adjustable in some cases), progressive rate springs and modern radial tyres have transformed the handling characteristics of modern cars. These dampers are now available to classic car owners too and are fitted as standard on all Bespoke models.
By adjusting damper settings, different suspension settings and spring rates and optimising these in conjunction with modern radial tyres, it becomes possible to tailor the handling characteristics to suit.
Replacing rear lever arm dampers with telescopic dampers, eliminates what has now become an obsolete component. Furthermore, it is yet another significant step forward in achieving modern standards of ride comfort, safety and handling.
We are also working towards being able to offer in-car adjustable dampers on Bespoke models. This offers exciting possibilities allowing the driver to optimise handling according to road conditions at the time.
Finally, there is the wider question of tyre choice. At the end of the day, this is a personal decision, and while we will recommend certain options that we know work well, the choice inevitably must be down to the owner.
Each model in the Bespoke range has a slightly different set-up and each individual car can be set to the specification of the owner.
This is not a decision to be taken lightly, and you will be fully informed and advised by our expert team at the time of commissioning.
Transmission
As with many automotive systems, advances in design and materials have transformed the performance and safety of our classic Astons.
Thanks to our vast experience and some clever designs we have developed both steering and transmission enhancements that not only offer increased performance and safety but are also thankfully very discreet.
We offer the option of a 5 speed, manual upgrade on the Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 & MKIII, the fifth gear of this unit is effectively an 'overdrive' offering effortless cruising.
Various upgrades are available depending on specific model with a choice of ratios and optional Limited Slip Differential available on all. The casings of these units can be either the standard black finish or 'concours' gloss black upon request.
Thanks to our vast experience and some clever designs we have developed both steering and transmission enhancements that not only offer increased performance and safety but are also thankfully very discreet.
We offer the option of a 5 speed, manual upgrade on the Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 & MKIII, the fifth gear of this unit is effectively an 'overdrive' offering effortless cruising.
Various upgrades are available depending on specific model with a choice of ratios and optional Limited Slip Differential available on all. The casings of these units can be either the standard black finish or 'concours' gloss black upon request.
Brakes
When building a car such as the Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 or MKIII it's absolutely essential that the brakes be upgraded or enhanced to the very best specification possible in order to match the cars all-round improvement in performance.
Advances in design and materials have transformed brake performance and safety and enable us to ensure the benefits afforded are available on all Bespoke models.
The most significant upgrade fitted to all DB2 Bespoke models (unless otherwise stipulated) is that of replacing the standard front drum brakes with discs, greatly enhancing safety and handling under braking.
Advances in design and materials have transformed brake performance and safety and enable us to ensure the benefits afforded are available on all Bespoke models.
The most significant upgrade fitted to all DB2 Bespoke models (unless otherwise stipulated) is that of replacing the standard front drum brakes with discs, greatly enhancing safety and handling under braking.
Electrical
Please contact our workshop manager to discuss model specifics.
All Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 & MKIII models will include all new wiring looms, switches, connections, relays, fuse systems etc. to ensure reliability of all electrical components.
Every Bespoke model will also include a high output alternator to improve reliability and capacity of the charging system. In addition to this a conversion to negative earth will be carried out to make it compatible with modern electronic equipment.
We also fit a warning buzzer to the side light system to avoid the frustration of returning to a non-starting Aston thanks to a drained battery.
In addition to this, the bespoke range will have the following electrical upgrades available:
Electric power assisted steering
Thatcham 1 alarm system
Tracker systems
Intermittent wiper/washer system
A variety of ICE options with I-pod connection and Sat Nav
Hazard warning light system
HID headlight upgrades
Every Bespoke model will also include a high output alternator to improve reliability and capacity of the charging system. In addition to this a conversion to negative earth will be carried out to make it compatible with modern electronic equipment.
We also fit a warning buzzer to the side light system to avoid the frustration of returning to a non-starting Aston thanks to a drained battery.
In addition to this, the bespoke range will have the following electrical upgrades available:
Electric power assisted steering
Thatcham 1 alarm system
Tracker systems
Intermittent wiper/washer system
A variety of ICE options with I-pod connection and Sat Nav
Hazard warning light system
HID headlight upgrades
Please contact our workshop manager to discuss model specifics.
Exhaust
The choice of exhaust system can dramatically alter the character of your tailor-made car. With this in mind, we are able to offer three options for your bespoke DB2, DB2/4 or MKIII.
Option 1 – Original specification replacement
Standard, cast iron manifold available with either a single or twin system.
Option 1 – Original specification replacement
Standard, cast iron manifold available with either a single or twin system.
Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Option 2 – Stainless Steel
Full Stainless Steel system available as single or twin exhaust. Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Option 3 - Stainless Steel Perfomance
Full Stainless Steel Performance system available as single or twin exhaust. Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Read more about 'Zircotec' by visiting their website HERE
Option 2 – Stainless Steel
Full Stainless Steel system available as single or twin exhaust. Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Option 3 - Stainless Steel Perfomance
Full Stainless Steel Performance system available as single or twin exhaust. Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Read more about 'Zircotec' by visiting their website HERE
Trim
These cars are stunning to look at and drive, but the passenger environment is just as important. We pride ourselves here at Aston Workshop on the level of our craftsmanship, and nowhere is this more apparent than the interior of our bespoke models.
The interior of your Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 or MKIII will be completely re-trimmed to your specification. This includes a wide range of materials & veneers to choose from as well as modified instrumentation etc.
Sound insulation upgrades are standard on all bespoke models allowing for longer journey lengths in greater comfort.
Exterior trim includes the fitting of new glass as a matter of course, plus all chrome areas prepared and re-chromed or fully replaced where necessary.
The interior of your Bespoke DB2, DB2/4 or MKIII will be completely re-trimmed to your specification. This includes a wide range of materials & veneers to choose from as well as modified instrumentation etc.
Sound insulation upgrades are standard on all bespoke models allowing for longer journey lengths in greater comfort.
Exterior trim includes the fitting of new glass as a matter of course, plus all chrome areas prepared and re-chromed or fully replaced where necessary.
Tropicalisation
Owners of our bespoke range will experience the thrill of driving one of the world's most iconic classic cars, but that no longer means levels of discomfort associated with 'hot weather' motoring of days gone by.
Our 'Tropicalisation' upgrade was specifically developed to deal with the hottest and most humid climates on the planet, but is of course of benefit to any owner of a bespoke model, anywhere in the world.
Your DB2 will be upgraded to include a single air-conditioning system and total heat insulation of the cabin area using a specially designed woven insulation fabric hidden in the floor, roof and doors. We will also coat the entire exhaust system with a ceramic 'Zircotec' coating for ultimate heat insulation.
You may not be able to see it, but you will definitely notice the difference, especially when the outside temperature rises.
Our 'Tropicalisation' upgrade was specifically developed to deal with the hottest and most humid climates on the planet, but is of course of benefit to any owner of a bespoke model, anywhere in the world.
Your DB2 will be upgraded to include a single air-conditioning system and total heat insulation of the cabin area using a specially designed woven insulation fabric hidden in the floor, roof and doors. We will also coat the entire exhaust system with a ceramic 'Zircotec' coating for ultimate heat insulation.
You may not be able to see it, but you will definitely notice the difference, especially when the outside temperature rises.
