The first Aston Martin cars were built in 1922, but the marque had a chequered financial record for many years. Prices were high and sales were low, because of the cars’ specialised nature, and because the business was small.
There were several important changes of management in the first decade of production, and stability was finally established when Sir Arthur Sutherland took control in 1932. The well-liked four single overhead camshaft engine appeared in 1927, and would be used in one form or another for the next ten years. At the same time ‘Bert’ Bertelli rejuvenated the company, putting the cars into important races with considerable success.
The Sports and International models were established from 1927, but were costly to build. With the company fast fading away, Sir Arthur introduced revised cars, using bought-in proprietary components to reduce costs, and with a new chassis frame. The result was the launch of the new International and Le Mans models which sold steadily and consistently for the next two years.
The latest cars combined a new chassis frame, developed versions of the overhead-camshaft engine, and a proprietary Moss transmission, with a choice of wheelbase lengths and body styles. The Le Mans (so named after the team’s motorsport appearances) was closely related to the new International, but had a lowered radiator, slab fuel tank, and chassis modifications. |
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Compared with the multitude of mundane engines offered by other makers, the Aston Martin’s single-cam was not only efficient – 70 bhp from 1.5 litres was outstanding by early 1930s standards – but well specified, and was prepared to run for ever. Until 1932 an International Le Mans had sold (very slowly!) for £650, while the latest (1933) model retailed at £595.
Aston Martin was so encouraged by the car’s reception that they made haste to offer alternative wheelbase lengths – of 102 in/2591 mm or 120 in/3048 cc – in future seasons, with a choice of open two-seater of four-seater bodywork. Long, low, and immediately recognisable by their unique radiator style, these cars had great character, riding hard, but making all the appropriate mechanical noises. They were exclusive too, for in 1932 and 1933, only 130 Aston Martins of all types were produced. Although the marque name survived, later, post-war, Aston Martins were completely different.
By the standards of the early 1930s, these were not only speedy cars (the Le Mans’ top speed was about 85 mph which compared well with the pace of the cheaper MG and Singer sports cars of the day), but were also significantly cheaper than before, retailing at £595.
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