Recalling the DB4 GT Zagato and V8 Vantage Zagato, a new collaboration between Aston Martin and Italian coachbuilder Zagato resulted in the DB7 Zagato and DB AR1. First shown at the January 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show, the DB AR1 starred in a “Power, Beauty, and Soul” tour of 13 North American cities over seven weeks in 2003, resulting in the sale of all 99 of these tantalizing roadsters – 91 in the US, and eight to Europe. Hand built by Zagato of mostly lightweight aluminum, the DB AR1 also included twin humps directly aft of each seat, evoking the “double bubble” roof treatment characteristic of Zagato’s GT cars.

Powered by the uprated 435 bhp GT variant of the DOHC, 48-valve 6.0-litre Vanquish V-12, this 2003 Aston Martin DB AR1 features the active sports exhaust, DB7 GT quick-shift gear lever, AP Racing clutch, and special multi-spoke 19" alloy wheels. Four-piston Brembo ventilated disc brakes handle stopping with a V-12 Vanquish booster. Massive performance includes acceleration from 0–60 mph in 4.9 seconds and 186 mph flat out.

The 88th of just 99 examples built by Aston Martin and Zagato, this singular example features Ferrari Titanium Gray paint over Claret Red leather with Charcoal carpets piped in Claret Red. Benefiting from proper storage and presented in virtually as-delivered condition, with just over 350 miles showing when catalogued, this immensely collectible and rare DB AR1 is accompanied by factory accessories including serialized manuals, tools, seat covers, and factory-supplied umbrellas.