Aston Martin History

The Aston Martin Company was founded in the United Kingdom in 1913. by Robert Bamford and Lionel Martin. They have opened up a shop in Kensington and the first cars did not come out until 1915. due to the World War I. Bamford left the company in 1920. and it had to refinanced by certain count Zborowski. In 1922, the Aston Martin cars set the world records for endurance and speed, however the glory was not long lived as the company declared bankruptcy at 1924. It was bought by Lady Charnwood, however even the change of management did not help and the factory closed in 1926. with the original founder Lionel Martin leaving.

The company went through its fits and starts until in 1947. it was bought by David Brown who also purchased the Lagoda company and both companies shared workshops and resources. Year 1955. marked the beginning of the production line of the classic DB series. The racing models DB2, DB3 and especially the DB4 which established the company’s racing car pedigree helped Aston Martin to establish excellent reputation with the “grand touring” style, but that did not prevent constant financial difficulties company has experienced over the years. In the 1970s the company changed owners 2 times, but it was not until Victor Gauntlett and CH Industrials took over at the beginning of 1981. that the financial changes started to happen.

They have realized it will take time to develop original Aston Martin vehicles so while they did that, the company also developed and produced automotive parts for other companies. Ford Europe took shares in the company in 1987. and with good sales of Vantage and Volante Zagato coupes the ancient V8 model was taken off the market and the new Virage range was introduced. With Ford came many changes, they have revamped the production and a record number of 700 vehicles was sold in 1995. DB7 model was especially successfully as its sales have exceeded all the previous DB models. In March of 2007. Aston Martin was sold to a consortium that is led by the Prodrive chairman Richards for the sum of 848 million dollars.