Originally established in 1913 in London as Bamford and Martin Limited, tuning and developing vehicles for race use. In 1919 a first prototype appeared, the Aston Martin (combining the name of Lionel Martin and the Aston Clinton hill climb track). This car was not made available to the public for another two years in somewhat basic but sporting form. Plagued by financial difficulties (which continued throughout its history), they produced some fine 1.5 and 2 litre sports cars in the 1930's, which included works entries for the Le Mans 24 hour race, the Double Twelve at Brooklands, plus racings successes in Northern Ireland and Dublin. Racing successes continued post war, and the early post war Aston Martin was merged with Lagonda following the take over by David Brown (of tractor frame) and the DB range commenced in 1947. The prototype DB1 and the DB2 that followed used the new twin cam engine designed by W.O. Bentley, and under the ownership of David Brown the most famous Aston Martins were produced, promoted by their further success’s at Le Mans in a DB3S and later the DB4 GT & Zagato racers. Although sales were successful spurred on the James Bond movies they were all painstakingly handmade and hand finished to the highest of standards and therefore costing more to make than their actual retail value! The DB range has a very enthusiastic following today, with rare vehicles and one off cars fetching huge sums. The V8 series was introduced in the early 70's with their distinguished aggressive shape and luxurious comfort. To some, Aston Martin produced the best post war British motorcars and their popularity and values remain buoyant.