Aston Martin announced the revival of the iconic 1959 DB4 G.T., one of the rarest and most sought after models of the brand.

Aston Martin Works will build 25 track-only cars to lightweight specification at Newport Pagnell, home of the original DB4 G.T.

Compared to a standard DB4, the G.T. was shorter, lighter and with a more powerful 3.7-litre straight-six engine, making it the fastest British sports car of the era. The original series was built between 1959 and 1963, with a total production run of 75 cars, out of which only 8 were lightweight models.

Each DB4 G.T. Continuation will remain faithful to the design of the original eight lightweights. Aston Martin Works will employ a mix of “old world craftsmanship and modern techniques”, with the continuation cars to benefit from improvements in engine performance, handling, braking and safety, retaining at the same time the feel and the character of the original.

The VIN numbers of the continuation series will carry on from the last original DB4 G.T. ordered -chassis No. 0202R- to ensure ‘an unbroken bloodline’. The 3.7-litre straight six will produce 340hp to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, with the rear axle also hosting a limited slip differential.

The car’s shorter wheelbase means that the DB4 G.T. is a strict two-seater while the body will follow the original construction, meaning thin aluminum body panels over a tubular frame. The new continuation models will benefit from the latest digital technology to improve the accuracy and consistency of the panels before being hand-finished.

Since the new cars will be illegal for use on public roads, Aston Martin Works created a two-year international track driving programme held at famous tracks around the world, including the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi. Customers will be offered the ‘ultimate arrive-and-drive’ experience with the help of expert instructors including multiple Le Mans class-winner Darren Turner.

“It’s a mark of Aston Martin’s breadth of abilities that in the same year we launched the DB11 – our most advanced ‘DB’ production car ever – we can also embark on an adventure such as the DB4 G.T. Continuation”, said Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and CEO. “A project that taps into the unique passion and skills that exist within Aston Martin, I’m thrilled we have the imagination and capability to offer 25 enthusiasts the unique opportunity to commission their own piece of Aston Martin history.”

All 25 of the continuation DB4 GTs have already been sold out, with Aston Martin saying that first deliveries will commence in the third quarter of 2017.

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