When you think of classic British luxury, Aston Martin is likely the first name that pops into your head. Now known as an international luxury brand, Aston Martin has been featured in movies and is admired by some of the world’s most famous celebrities and royalty. In this article, you will learn about the history of the company, the models they currently offer, and more.
How the Company Got Started
In 1913, Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford founded Aston Martin after partnering the year prior (1912) to sell Singer cars. They are pictured to the right. When they founded the company, they came from both a sales and a racing background – both of which inspired their first model that came out in 1915. They produced the vehicle at Henniker Mews, which was a property they had gotten earlier that year. However, because there was an impending war, the pair could not fully bring their dreams to life as they had hoped.
Once World War I was over, the company owners went right back to creating cars. Martin and Bamford aimed to “build cars that were ever faster, more powerful, thrilling, comfortable – more beautiful – than the previous.” In 1922, they fulfilled the promise of delivering fast cars when they entered in the 1922 French Grand Prix. Aston Martin Cars have also raced in the 24 Hours of LeMans race, winning in 1959 and 2017. The company also proved to be successful in their sales as they were making their racing debut. Prior to World War II, they produced just over 700 vehicles.
In 1947, the company was bought by David Brown – a powerful businessman that brought the company to the forefront of the automotive market. Under his ownership, the company developed some of their most famous cars, the classic “DB” series. These cars would be what Aston Martin was recognized for, and still is to this day. In 1963, the company launched the DB%, which was their most popular vehicle and became “an instant international hit.”
In 1972, the company was sold to William Wilson, then to Sprague and Curtins in 1975. This signified a period of back-and-forth of financial trouble and ownership for the Aston Martin. However, this did not stop them from producing quality vehicles. Eventually, the company was bought out (75%) by the Ford Motor Company. In 2007, this era ended and Aston Martin became an independent company once again.
Today, the cars are remembered for being featured in James Bond films, being winners on the racetrack, and being sleek, luxurious cars.
The Logo
The Aston Martin logo has remained similar throughout its over 100 year old history. The original logo featured an “a” and “m” placed together on a gold and black circle. Once the company was incorporated, the logo changed to feature the name “Aston Martin” on a pair of gold wings. In 1930, the color scheme was changed to silver. From 1932-2003, the logo changed from gold to bronze to green to blue. In 2003, the logo was changed to the one that the world is familiar with.
Sales
In the North American market, Aston Martin has seen some fluctuation in sales. In 2001 when they were introduced, they started off strong by selling 302 units. Although this may seem like a small number compared to other luxury brands, it is a significant accomplishment for an independent brand. 2007 and 2008 were the best years for the company, selling 2,058 and 1,600 units, respectively. From 2001-2015, the company sold almost 13,000 vehicles.
There are only 20 Aston Martin dealerships in the United States, so they are very rare and sometimes can be difficult to get. This speaks to the exclusivity of the brand.
Many Different Models
Aston Martin has a unique selection of vehicles available for purchase. Here’s a list of what is currently available.
Model | Avg Asking Price | Picture | Description |
New: $36,375 |  | The DBX is the Aston Martin compact SUV. With its V8 engine, it can go up to 193 miles per hour. “Born a sports car with a soul, its immense power and peerless handling make every drive a voyage of intensity.” | |
Used: $14,700 New: $25,396 |  | The Vantage “is a raw and instinctive, unwavering in its singular purpose: to overwhelm the senses through its world-renowned design, agile performance, and dedicated craftsmanship.” This coupe can get up to 195 miles per hour with its 4.0 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. | |
Used: $14,327 New: $23,325 |  | “Standard-bearer for an all new generation of cars, DB11 is the most powerful and efficient ‘DB’ production model in Aston Martin’s history. It can go up to 192 miles per hour and features an all new exterior and interior. | |
Used: $18,590 New: $26,546 |  | The DBS is available in a convertible model. This model is lightweight, muscular, and potent. It has “cutting edge aerodynamics.” It can go up to 211 miles per hour and goes from 0-62 miles per hour in 3.4 seconds. | |
Used: $13,999 New: $17,750 |  | The Valkyrie is the most stunning Aston Martin model. It is “an incredibly special car with an equally remarkable name. One that immediately evokes connotations of power and honor, of being chosen by the Gods. Only 150 road cars will be made. Valkyrie is Aston Martin’s first ever hypercar and it leaves nothing in reserve. It also gets up to 1140 BHP (power). |
Most Popular Model
The most popular model of Aston Martin in its long history is the DB5. It is considered the brand’s most famous car, among the other notable models that have been released. The DB5 was the model that propelled Aston Martin into fame from being featured in the James Bond movie. The second most popular model is one that is currently available, the DB11. The DB series has always been well-liked among Aston Martin consumers.
Geographic Popularity
All Aston Martin cars are made in their home factory in Gayden, United Kingdom. Because of this, the company is most popular in the U.K. After all, they are considered “iconic luxury British sports cars.”
Sustainability
Aston Martin has been dedicated to creating a more sustainable future. Because they came from such humble beginnings, the company prides itself on creating luxury out of little. Their website boasts: “The importance of sustainability (ESG) to business have increased significantly over the past few years and at Aston Martin Lagonda, it is no different as we strive to be a sustainable luxury business. This is underpinned by our commitment to responsible and sustainable economic growth. As signatory to the UN Global Compact, the group is committed to doing business in an ethical and transparent manner, overseen by good corporate governance.”
Safety
In 2020, Aston Martin had the following safety features:
- Anti-Lock Brakes
- Stability Control
- Front-Impact Airbags
- Side Impact Airbags
- Pretensioners
- Security System
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