By Daniela Sperotto
The brand is synonymous with indulgent pleasure and one of the sexiest cars on the road. In 1915 the first Aston Martin was registered. The name was derived from Lionel Martin’s successful performance racing at Aston Hill near Aston Clinton in Buckinghamshire.
Over the years the Aston Martin brand has seen many changes and passed through many hands. On 12 March 2007 Aston Martin was purchased by a consortium and joint venture company for a staggering US$ 848 million. Ford would retain a stake in the holding together with the consortium consisting of English businessman John Sinders and two Kuwaiti investment companies: Investment Dar and Adeem Investment.
Under new management, Aston Martin has 120 dealers in 28 countries and is still seen as one of the world’s finest. The company even announced the revival of the Lagonda marquee in 2008 and signals a major expansion of the Aston Martin brand. The Lagonda was first produced by the American-born Wilbur Gunn around the same time as the first Aston Martin. The brand underwent several manifestations but soon became well known as a racing car and sporting saloon brand. It was one of the most iconic names in luxury car manufacturing and today, together with the established high performance expertise of Aston Martin and the unique character of the new brand, it seems the brand is really a step ahead of the rest.
Having featured in many movies, there is none so popular as Aston Martin’s long affiliation with Ian Flemming’s James Bond movies, which brought Aston Martin to the screens and hearts of millions. With its debut in the 1964 Goldfinger, the silver DB5 driven by Sean Connery has become the most famous Aston Martin and a collector’s item the world over.
A history full of heritage and prestige runs through the core of Aston Martin. It is far beyond just a car but rather holds a spirit of distinguished pedigree and culture. Dr Ulrich Bez agrees saying: “Aston Martin combines three important elements: power, beauty and soul. Aston Martins are truly special – they always have been and always will be”.
