The automotive world is abuzz with the latest creation from Ringbrothers, the celebrated custom car builders. Known for their prowess in transforming vintage American muscle cars into modern marvels, they have now turned their artistic eye to a British classic: the 1971 Aston Martin DBS. This exceptional project, dubbed 'Octavia,' made its grand debut at Monterey Car Week, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and critics alike. It represents a bold departure from their traditional portfolio, yet it exemplifies their unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative spirit. The 'Octavia' is a testament to what can be achieved when classic elegance meets contemporary performance, pushing the boundaries of vehicle restoration and customization.
This bespoke Aston Martin DBS 'Octavia' is not merely a refreshed vintage car; it's a completely re-envisioned machine that seamlessly blends iconic design with cutting-edge engineering. Ringbrothers, in collaboration with designer Gary Ragle, meticulously sculpted custom carbon-fiber bodywork, expanding its dimensions for a more aggressive stance. Underneath its striking exterior lies a formidable powertrain—a supercharged 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 engine, delivering an astonishing 805 horsepower, a monumental leap from the original's output. The project consumed thousands of hours in design and development, culminating in a vehicle that stands as a unique fusion of American muscle car ferocity and quintessential British sophistication, truly a moving mechanical work of art that redefines the concept of a restomod.
The Rebirth of a British Icon: 'Octavia' Design and Engineering
Ringbrothers, celebrated for their masterful restomod projects, has unveiled their latest creation, the 'Octavia,' a remarkable transformation of a 1971 Aston Martin DBS. This project marks a significant departure from their usual focus on American muscle cars, demonstrating their versatility and exceptional skill in reimagining classic automobiles. The 'Octavia' stands as a pinnacle of custom car building, blending the timeless elegance of Aston Martin with modern performance and design elements. Its debut at Monterey Car Week garnered considerable attention, highlighting the painstaking craftsmanship and innovative engineering that went into its creation, setting a new benchmark for high-performance restomods.
The transformation of the 1971 Aston Martin DBS into the 'Octavia' is a testament to meticulous design and advanced engineering. Collaborating with designer Gary Ragle, Ringbrothers crafted bespoke carbon-fiber bodywork, which involved an astounding 3,900 hours of CAD design and an additional 8,200 hours of hands-on development. This extensive work resulted in a vehicle with an extended wheelbase by three inches and a widened track by eight inches, with the rear expanding by an additional ten inches. The car is coated in a distinctive Double-0 Silver paint with Nuclear Olive Green accents, enhancing its unique aesthetic. Performance-wise, the 'Octavia' is built on a Roadster Shop Fast Track Stage III chassis, featuring fully independent rear suspension and RS SV by Fox Racing coilovers. It rides on HRE wheels, shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and is equipped with powerful 14-inch Brembo brakes, ensuring exceptional handling and stopping power for its immense output.
Unleashing Unprecedented Power and Luxury in the 'Octavia'
Beyond its striking exterior, the 'Octavia' harbors a beastly heart: a Wegner Motorsports-built 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 engine, supercharged with a custom 2.65-liter Harrop unit. This formidable powertrain unleashes a staggering 805 horsepower, a dramatic increase from the original DBS's 320 horsepower, propelling this classic into an entirely new performance category. Power is seamlessly transferred to the wheels via a six-speed manual transaxle, offering an engaging driving experience that perfectly complements its raw power. The interior of the 'Octavia' is equally impressive, meticulously crafted to offer a luxurious and refined cabin environment. It features a harmonious blend of rich caramel-colored leather, sleek carbon fiber trim, and intricately designed 3D-printed stainless steel accents. Throughout the cabin, subtle 'Octavia' badges serve as a constant reminder of the car's bespoke nature and unique identity, reflecting the extraordinary attention to detail in every aspect of this build.
The meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the mechanical and exterior elements into the lavish interior of the 'Octavia.' The cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring premium caramel-colored leather that exudes sophistication, complemented by expertly integrated carbon fiber trim. Adding to the bespoke feel are unique 3D-printed stainless steel accents, which showcase the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques. The design team ensured that every element, down to the subtle 'Octavia' badges found throughout the interior, contributed to a cohesive and exclusive aesthetic. This car represents a significant achievement for Ringbrothers, not just in its performance capabilities but also in its ability to combine the brutal force of an American-inspired engine with the refined elegance traditionally associated with English motoring. As Ringbrothers co-owner Mike Ring aptly described, this project pushed them beyond their comfort zone, resulting in a creation that truly embodies the spirit of hot-rodding on the grandest stage. While no price has been disclosed, the sheer investment in time and bespoke components suggests that this unparalleled vehicle comes with a substantial value, reflecting its status as a one-of-a-kind automotive masterpiece.