1956 Aston Martin DB2/4 MkII Fixed-Head Coupé - Coachwork by Tickford

Launched in 1953 at the London Motor Show, the Aston Martin DB2/4 was designed as an evolution of the highly acclaimed DB2, introducing a more practical 2+2 seating layout alongside the classic coupé and drophead versions. It marked an important chapter for Aston Martin as the company sought to combine grand touring refinement with sporting performance, helping to broaden its appeal beyond pure sports car enthusiasts. The DB2/4’s blend of performance, style and usability quickly earned it a distinguished reputation, bolstered by competition success and the marque’s commitment to craftsmanship.

Power came from W.O. Bentley’s 2.6-litre twin-cam six-cylinder engine tuned to 125bhp in Vantage-specification. While the added weight initially impacted performance, the introduction of a 3-litre 140bhp engine in 1954 restored its sporting credentials, with a top speed of 118mph and 0–60mph achieved in approximately 11 seconds.

Following David Brown’s acquisition of Tickford Ltd, the renowned Newport Pagnell coachbuilder produced one of the more exclusive variations of the DB2/4 MkII bodies, the Fixed-Head Coupé by Tickford, launched in 1955. This included a rare fixed-head coupé 'notchback' style, offering similar accommodation to the drophead but priced the same as the three-door saloon. Tickford’s bespoke approach added subtle luxury and distinctive styling cues to the DB2/4, but of the 199 MkIIs built, only 34 were Tickford Fixed-Head Coupés, making these cars exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This 1956 DB2/4 MkII FHC, chassis #AM/300/1210, is one of those scarce Tickford-bodied cars, delivered new on 2nd October 1956 in Ice Blue, a hue that has since been beautifully restored by a specialist concours preparation workshop. According to the Aston Martin build sheet, the car was originally sold via Majestic Motors in Paris to Jean Richard-Ducros of Ales, France, registered as 86 FK 75. It subsequently passed to another French owner, wearing registration 3268 RC 67, before being acquired by Horst Gruber in Germany. In 1980 it was purchased by Stefan Stinner, also in Germany, who retained the car for nearly two decades (registration RUD-AR 600). It then came to the UK in 1999, purchased by Guy Pearce, who owned the car until 2004, when it was acquired by our vendor.

During its time in continental Europe, the car was maintained to a high standard, with significant mechanical work carried out by Roos Engineering in Switzerland and a well regarded Aston Martin specialist in Germany. The engine was extensively upgraded for regularity rallying, with the fitment of unleaded valve seats, Carillo pistons and rods, a lightened flywheel, balanced crankshaft and a full conversion to DBA specification including high-lift DBA cams and larger valves. In 2016 the engine was rebuilt again by a respected DB2/4 specialist with new piston liners and seals and it has covered approximately 3,500 miles since.

Mechanical enhancements also include a modern high torque starter motor, positive earth alternator and uprated Alfin drum brakes with new wheel cylinders and shoes. In 2020, the car underwent a full bare-metal repaint in its original Ice Blue, during which all chrome work and brightware was replated or replaced. Vredestein Sprint tyres were fitted and the interior was sympathetically refurbished, with fresh Connolly Blue Grey leather and correct OE cloth trim to factory standards.

Beneath the bonnet lies a 2,922cc straight-six built to Vantage specification, paired with the DBCW/565 gearbox and 3.77:1 rear axle, providing the smooth yet purposeful driving experience that earned the DB2/4 its reputation. The body, HT.121, bears all the hallmarks of Tickford’s craftsmanship, elegantly proportioned, subtly enhanced and unmistakably Aston Martin.

Over the course of the last two decades, the car has seen active and enjoyable use. It completed the Beaujolais Run charity event, competed in the 2011 Liège–Rome–Liège Rally, and won AMOC handicap prizes at Goodwood, Longleat and Wiscombe Park Hillclimb. It has featured in Classic & Sports Car and the Aston Martin Owners Club magazine, copies of which are included in the car’s extensive Document Pack.

Also accompanying the car is a full HTP, FIVA card, the original Aston Martin instruction manual, parts and workshop manuals and a comprehensive history file with German logbook, detailed invoices and period correspondence.

Its 1956 build date and full documentation make it an excellent candidate for prestigious historic events such as the Mille Miglia Storica, where authenticity and provenance are essential. This DB2/4 represents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire a rare, elegant and highly collectible post-war Aston Martin. With two recent sales of similar Tickford-bodied cars achieving in excess of £130,000, this is a serious proposition for collectors, historic rally competitors, or marque enthusiasts alike. Whether for concours presentation, high-profile touring or competitive hill climb outings, AM/300/1210 stands as a superb ambassador of Aston Martin’s mid-century heritage.