A 1955 Aston Martin DB3S with deep roots in British motorsport and auto show history is set to cross the auction block in Monaco with an estimate reaching as high as $4.7 million.
Developed during the 1950s as a dedicated competition machine, the DB3S was engineered to improve upon the earlier DB3 and quickly proved its capability on demanding circuits such as Silverstone, Goodwood and Dundrod. Unlike many classic Aston Martins recognized today, the DB3S was never intended for road use. It was built strictly for racing, with just 31 examples produced. Of those, 11 were factory works cars, while the remaining 20 were delivered to private customers.
The car offered for sale, chassis 111, belongs to the latter group. It debuted at the 1955 British Motor Show at Earls Court before embarking on a competitive career in England. Over time, it appeared at circuits including Silverstone and Snetterton and was driven by notable racers David McKay, Tony Gaze and Tom Sulman.
Chassis 111 accumulated victories and podium finishes in events organized by the British Racing and Sports Car Club and the Snetterton Motor Racing Club. In later years, it also participated in historic gatherings such as the Mille Miglia Storica, extending its presence beyond its original racing era.
The car spent roughly four decades in the care of the Forshaw family, prominent Aston Martin collectors during the 1980s and 1990s. During that period, it underwent a restoration lasting approximately three years while retaining its original character. It remains configured as an open two-seat racer with an aluminum body finished in its original colors and mounted on a twin tubular frame.
Power comes from a Lagonda-derived 2.9-liter inline-six engine rated at 207 horsepower.
RM Sotheby’s will offer the car during the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique. The pre-sale estimate ranges from $3.5 million to $4.7 million, supported by documented ownership history and eligibility for prominent rallies and touring events.
Via RM Sotheby’s
Shawn Henry