Aston Martin DB2/4
The world's first luxury hatchback and a gentleman's express.
- Power
- 125 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.2 s
- Top speed
- 116 mph
- Est. value
- $185k–$450k
About the Aston Martin DB2/4
Introduced in 1953 as an evolution of the DB2, the DB2/4 added two occasional rear seats and a pioneering opening rear tailgate, effectively creating the first sporting hatchback. The 2.6-litre 'Vantage' specification engine was standard for early Mark I models, featuring a W.O. Bentley-designed twin-cam straight-six that provided a refined yet urgent power delivery. Its chassis was a shortened version of the Lagonda spaceframe, offering sophisticated handling for the era thanks to coil-spring suspension all around. While later cars received a 2.9-litre unit, the 2.6 remains highly prized for its purity and connection to the original DB2 racing heritage.
Aston Martin DB2/4 specs
The Aston Martin DB2/4 produces 125 bhp (93 kW) and 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.2 seconds and has a top speed of 116 mph (187 km/h).
| Make | Aston Martin |
|---|---|
| Model | DB2/4 |
| Trim | 2.6 |
| Years | 1953–1955 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | 2+2 Hatchback Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 565 built |
| Original price | About $6,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.6-litre DOHC straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,580 cc (2.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 125 bhp (93 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.2 s |
| Top speed | 116 mph (187 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,195 kg (2,635 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 105 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Aston Martin DB2/4 worth?
A typical Aston Martin DB2/4 is estimated to be worth $185,000 – $450,000 (about £138,000 – £336,000).
Its original price when new was about $6,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Aston Martin DB2/4 rarity in CarSpot
The Aston Martin DB2/4 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Aston Martin DB2/4 fun facts
- The DB2/4 is widely considered the first production car to feature a top-hinged rear opening hatch, predating the modern hatchback trend by decades.
- The '2/4' in the name signifies that the car was a 2-seater with space for 4 people, though the rear seats were famously tight.
- The engine was a Lagonda design by W.O. Bentley, acquired by David Brown specifically to give Aston Martin the performance needed to compete with Jaguar.
