Aston Martin DB3S '53

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.X

Displacement

2,922 cc

DriveTrain

FR

Height

1,054 mm

Length

3,905 mm

Weight

856 kg

Width

1,620 mm

Max Power

224 BHP / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque

31.0 kgfm / 4,000 rpm

Performance Point

PP 487.06

Manufacturer

Aston Martin

Aston Martin DB3S '53: A Racing Legend of British Motorsports

The Aston Martin DB3S '53 stands as one of the most iconic British sports cars of the 1950s, forged in the fires of international competition to revive Aston Martin's aspirations at Le Mans and other prestigious races. Released in 1953 as a successor to the heavier DB3, the DB3S was engineered with a philosophy that prioritized agility, lightweight construction, and superior roadholding, setting a new benchmark for its era. Its sleek bodywork—characterized by flowing curves, a low stance, and distinctive grille—captured both the spirit and the technological ambitions of post-war British automotive engineering.

Designed by the legendary Aston Martin engineer William Watson, the DB3S was powered by a 2.9-liter straight-six engine, which, thanks to its improved power-to-weight ratio, delivered thrilling performance on the track. The chassis' advanced layout, combined with aerodynamic bodywork by Frank Feeley, enabled the DB3S to deliver superb handling and stability at high speeds. These features made the car a formidable competitor in endurance events, and it quickly earned a reputation for reliability and speed.

On the racing circuit, the Aston Martin DB3S '53 made an indelible impact. It placed second overall at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in both 1955 and 1956, cementing its status among the elite sports racers of its time. The model also secured numerous victories and podium finishes across European circuits, contributing significantly to Aston Martin's motorsport pedigree. Its legacy paved the way for the DBR1, which would go on to capture outright victory at Le Mans in 1959.

Today, the DB3S '53 is revered by collectors, historians, and racing fans as a symbol of Aston Martin's resilience and innovation. With only 31 original units built—20 for competition and 11 road-going examples—its rarity and historical significance have ensured its elevated status among classic car enthusiasts. The DB3S continues to inspire passion and admiration, representing a golden era of motorsports and the enduring excellence of British automotive design.