Aston Martin DB2/4 Bertone

The Aston Martin DB2/4 Bertone chassis LML/765, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece designed by Bertone’s Franco Scaglione in August 1954, is a car that blends exceptional design with intriguing history. Originally ordered by Wacky Arnolt for an unspecified client, the car’s factory records indicate a slightly misspelled name, leading some to believe it was actually meant for Henri Pigozzi, the founder of Simca. This theory is supported by design elements on the car, such as the rear lights, which appear to have been borrowed from Simca models. Initially intended to be part of a small production run of Aston Martin-based Berlinettas, Bertone’s plans were thwarted when Aston Martin declined to provide additional rolling chassis. Despite this setback, the LML/765 was first shown at the Salone dell’Automobile in Torino in 1957, painted white, and again in 1958, now in blue. The car eventually made its way to the United States, where it was owned by John G. Gyann in 1976. It passed through several owners, including Dr. Jim Pavlatos, who began restoring it, and Chicago sports car dealer Bill Jacobs, before being acquired by the prestigious Blackhawk Collection. In 1987, Roger Karlson purchased the car and dedicated significant time and resources to refining its restoration. It was exhibited at Pebble Beach in 1987, drawing attention for its distinctive features, such as the pronounced wraparound rear window and sleek fenders. In 2019, the car was sold to a new owner who entrusted Aston Martin specialists, Kevin Kay Restorations, with a full concours-level restoration. This painstaking work culminated in the LML/765’s victory at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it was awarded First in Class. Powered by a refurbished 2922cc twin-cam, 6-cylinder engine generating 140 bhp, the car retains its striking aesthetics, including a long bonnet, short flat boot, and tail fins with prominent lights. The Aston Martin DB2/4 Bertone LML/765 is the only coupe built from the seven Aston Martin chassis supplied to Carrozzeria Bertone, making it an incredibly rare and significant piece of automotive history.