Some cars are built to turn heads; others tell a story. The Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato does both. With only 99 ever made, it’s a car that rarely makes an appearance—until now. Designed exclusively for the US market, one of these coveted models is heading to auction at RM Sotheby’s, offering a rare chance to see a masterpiece from the early 2000s back in the spotlight. Read More Another Rolls-Royce Cullinan Gets the Mansory Treatment The DB AR1, or “American Roadster 1,” was Aston Martin’s solution to a very specific problem. While its coupe sibling, the DB7 Zagato, dazzled in Europe and Asia, it couldn’t clear the hurdles needed to reach American roads. To keep fans across the Atlantic happy, Aston Martin worked with Zagato to create a roadster tailored for the US. The result was a stunning open-top design, making its debut at the 2003 Los Angeles Auto Show. Bespoke Details Inside and Out Built on the DB7 Volante’s chassis, the DB AR1 by Zagato takes cues from its coupe sibling. The twin cowls behind the seats are a playful nod to Zagato’s signature "double bubble" roof. Without a fixed roof—just a rain cover to keep the cabin dry—it’s designed for open-air cruising. The interior pairs "Soft White" leather seats with a "Bowland Black" exterior for a striking contrast. Aluminum switchgear and black wood trim complement the diamond-quilted sports seats. It’s rare to find a car from 2003 that feels this well-preserved—this one’s barely been driven, with just 5,844 miles on the odometer. Each of the 99 cars has its own identity. This one, number 52, carries a commemorative plaque in the rocker-panel sills. Originally owned by Cal Turner, heir to the Dollar General fortune, the car has been carefully maintained over the years. Recent updates, like new tires and repairs to the air conditioning, ensure it’s ready for its next owner. The DB AR1 comes equipped with electronically controlled sport seats, a Becker stereo with a six-disc CD changer, and air conditioning to keep things comfortable on long drives. Engine Specs and Top Speed Beneath the sculpted hood lies a 5.9-litre V12 engine borrowed from the DB7 Vantage, cranking out 435 bhp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, it takes just 4.9 seconds from 0 to 60 mph takes just 4.9 seconds, and the top speed stretches to 185 mph. The active sports exhaust gives the V12 a sound that’s impossible to ignore. Read More 'An icon of icons': 100 Years of the Rolls-Royce Phantom This DB AR1 is expected to fetch between £184,000 and £225,000 at RM Sotheby’s upcoming auction. That’s not pocket change, but when you consider there are only 99 of these in existence, it starts to make sense. Some cars are a dime a dozen—this one isn’t. Source: RM Sotheby's
