How much horsepower did the original DB4 produce?

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Aston Martin DB4
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The Aston Martin DB4 is an iconic vehicle that not only revolutionized the brand but also left an indelible mark on the world of sports cars. Produced from 1958 to 1963, the DB4 was a true work of art with its sleek design, luxurious interiors, and, of course, its powerful engine. But the question remains, how much horsepower did the original DB4 produce?

To get a clear picture of the DB4’s horsepower, it’s important to look at the various iterations of this classic model. The original DB4 was introduced in 1958 with a 3.7-liter inline-six engine known as the Tadek Marek-designed twin-cam. This engine was capable of producing an impressive 240 horsepower, which was quite remarkable for its time.

The DB4’s engine featured a cast-iron block with an aluminum alloy head and two SU carburetors. It was coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to fully experience the power and agility of this sports car. With its impressive horsepower, the DB4 could achieve a top speed of around 140 mph, giving it a significant edge in the sports car category.

In 1961, Aston Martin introduced a more powerful version of the DB4, known as the DB4 Vantage. This upgraded model featured triple carburetors and higher compression ratios, which resulted in an increase in horsepower to 266. The Vantage model also boasted higher torque, allowing for a quicker acceleration and even more exhilarating driving experience.

In addition to the original DB4 and DB4 Vantage, Aston Martin produced a limited number of DB4 GT models. These were lightweight versions of the DB4 and were designed for racing. Equipped with a 302-horsepower engine, thanks to higher compression and two spark plugs per cylinder, the DB4 GT delivered exceptional performance and was even more thrilling on the racetrack.

The DB4 was revered not only for its performance but also for its elegance and craftsmanship. Its sophisticated body design, designed by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, featured beautiful lines and curved fenders, making it a truly timeless masterpiece.

In conclusion, the original Aston Martin DB4 produced 240 horsepower, which was quite impressive during its time. With subsequent models such as the DB4 Vantage and the limited-edition DB4 GT, the horsepower was increased to 266 and 302, respectively. The DB4 was undoubtedly a game-changer for Aston Martin, solidifying its reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance, luxurious sports cars that were ahead of their time.

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