Aston Martin DP214

The Aston Martin DP214 was a prototype sports car developed by Aston Martin for use in grand touring-style racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Two DP214s were built in 1963, with one surviving today.

Just like its predecessor, the DP212, the DP214 was based on DB4GT chassis, numbers #0194/R and #0195/R. The body was completely redesigned, using elements from the DP212 such as the Kamm tail rear end. The bodywork would be wider then DP212 though, and the nose would be a completely new design. The DP214 would also use a production Tadek Marek 3.7 litre Inline-6, unlike the DP212's larger 4.0 litre engine.

Unlike the DP212, the DP214s would be used in races other than Le Mans. The DP212 would make its debut at the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans, which saw a result similar to that of DP212 in 1962. Although fast, both DP214s suffered mechanical problems and failed to finish. Moving to the Guard's Trophy at Brands Hatch, a lone DP214 would manage to finish in sixth place. This was followed by a seventh place finish at Goodwood Circuit, then a victory at the Coppa Inter-Europa at Monza, which also saw the second DP214 take 3rd. The next two rounds at Monthéry would see the DP214s take victory again.

Following the 1963 season, both DP214s were sold to John Dawnay's racing team for use throughout the international circuit. Unfortunately one of the DP214s was destroyed an in accident at the Nürburgring, killing driver Brian Hetreed. The other lone DP214 finished out the season with a single victory before being retired and kept in private collections.

External links

* [http://www.astonmartins.com/racing/dp214.htm AstonMartins.com] - DP214