Aston Martin Series I 1927-1932
In 1913, wealthy sportsman Lionel Martin collaborated with engineer Robert Bamford to produce light cars based on 10-horsepower Singers.
129 Series 1 cars built
Martin contested hillclimbs, with a particularly satisfying win achieved at the Aston Hill Climb in Buckinghamshire. When he decided to produce a sporting vehicle of his own, he combined his last name with that of the site of his recent success and first announced the Aston Martin marque in 1914. Much competition success followed, and just 53 road cars were built between 1920 and 1925. However, the partnership eventually succumbed to bankruptcy in 1925.
The marque was quickly revived in 1926, which saw Lord Charnwood join forces with brilliant engineer and racing driver A.C. Bertelli to form Aston Martin Limited. By 1927, a completely new model was prepared for display at the London Motor Show, with production units available as a Touring car with open or closed bodywork or the Sports model with a lowered short-wheelbase chassis. Despite being regarded as very attractive cars, they suffered from excessive weight, and just 15 were produced. Next, two cars were built for the 1928 racing season, giving rise to the much sportier “International” series.