Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato

When the DB4 GT Zagato debuted in 1961, it had a price tag of £5,470. If that sounds like a bargain, let’s put that figure in perspective, because the average UK house price at the time was £2,770! 

Only 19 examples of the Zagato-bodied model were produced, and they all look slightly different. This, combined with the fact that they rarely crop up at auction, makes estimating their current worth pretty difficult – but you’re likely to need as much as £5million if you want to add one to your collection.

What makes it so special? Well, apart from its stunning looks and rarity, this car was the ultimate Aston Martin of its day. It was based on the DB4 GT, and this was no slouch to start with. 

The GT was designed for racing, with a shorter wheelbase, lower kerbweight and uprated carburettors and brakes. And with 302bhp from its straight-six engine, it could sprint from 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds. 

Zagato took the GT’s chassis and added its own body, which was the first creation of designer Ercole Spada, who went on to pen stylish sports cars for Alfa Romeo and Lancia. The elegant, lightweight metalwork shaved a further 45kg off the weight of the standard GT, while tweaks to the engine liberated an extra 12bhp. Today few cars at any price are as recognisable or desirable as a DB4 GT Zagato. 

They enjoy a mythical status among enthusiasts, and to see one on the roads is a real event. When you do, you’ll be amazed at how small it is – it’s about the same length as a Ford Focus – and by how modern it looks. Features such as its covered headlamps and pop-out door handles are still used on the firm’s current models. 

Make no mistake, it’s not just one of the greatest Aston Martins ever produced, it’s one of the best cars ever made.
 
* Value: £2million-£5million (est)

* Engine: 3.7-litre straight-six, 314bhp

* Transmission: Four-speed manual

* 0-60mph/top speed: 6.4 seconds

* Cars built: 19