1952 saw an Aston Martin DB3 sports racer win the Goodwood 9-Hours. It makes a comeback to the renowned circuit to take center stage at Bonham’s Goodwood Revival sale more than fifty years later.

A race car can occasionally be made to fit a particular course, and in the case of this gorgeous 1952 Aston Martin DB3 two-seater, that course is Goodwood Motor Circuit. It was entered in the Goodwood 9-Hours endurance competition the same year it was built, with Peter Collins and Pat Griffith sharing the driving seat. It turned out to be a very successful mix, as this sporty Aston won first place.

Chassis DB3/5 would go on to establish itself as a formidable competitor on the racetrack, finishing second in the 1953 Sebring 12-Hours driven by George Abecassis and Reg Parnell. The outstanding aerodynamics of this Aston also played a part. When this DB3 was examined in a wind tunnel by the Vickers aircraft firm, it turned out to be incredibly slippery due to its unique “portcullis” nose intake grille and under tray panelling, which was rare at the time.

For the past fifteen years, this gorgeous DB3 has been cared for by seasoned Aston specialists Hall & Hall. This Aston Martin Lagonda’s twin-overhead camshaft 2580cc 6-cylinder engine was initially used to power the DB3. Later, Aston upgraded the engine to a larger 2922cc model, increasing power from 138bhp to a robust 163bhp. Hall & Hall, however, installed a new engine with lighter pistons and a crankshaft based on an original spare block for the vehicle. Additionally, the original engine that came with the automobile was rebuilt at that same time.

Rob Hall is the best person to remark on how it drives now: “It’s a nice historic race car with very neutral handling.” The turn-in is good through fast corners and you can control it beautifully with the throttle thanks to our stronger front and softer rear setup. Although the steering is heavy, I like it that way since it provides more tactile feedback. The vehicle appears to fit Goodwood.” If you’re drawn to this elegant DB3, don’t forget to attend Bonhams’ Goodwood Revival auction on September 17th.