The DB4's design formed the basis for later Aston Martin models, such as the DB4 GT Zagato, the Lagonda Rapide 4-door saloon.

The lightweight superleggera (tube-frame) body was designed by Carrozzeria Touring in Milan, and its Continental looks caused a sensation on its unveiling at the 1958 London Motor Show.

Although the design and construction techniques were Italian, the DB4 was the first Aston to be built at the company's Newport Pagnell works in Buckinghamshire, England.

The engine was prone to overheating initially, but the 240 hp (179 kW)[2] produced by the twin-SU carburettor version made buyers forgive this unfortunate trait.

Initially the DB4 was fitted with 16-inch wheels with 600H16 Avon TurboSpeed crossply tyres, or 185VR16 Pirelli Cinturato CA67 as the radial option.

The Series III cars differed from the earlier ones in having taillights consisting of three small lamps mounted on a chrome backing plate.

[6] The Series V also has a taller and longer body to provide more interior space, though the diameter of the wheels was reduced to keep the overall height the same.

Introduced in September 1959, it featured enclosed headlights and a thinner aluminium skin for lighter weight.

In 2016 Aston Martin Works announced that a further twenty-five track-only cars based on the 1959 lightweight specification would be manufactured at its Newport Pagnell plant, each costing around £1.5M with delivery expected in late 2017.