The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Aston Martin DP214, produced in 1962, was a beast of a machine built to compete in the world of endurance racing. With a 4.0-liter straight-six engine, dual-overhead camshafts, and a dry-sump oiling system, the DP214 was capable of producing up to 315 horsepower at 6,000 RPMs. This power was transferred to the rear wheels via a 5-speed Hewland racing gearbox, and the car was brought to a halt by disc brakes on all four corners.
The DP214 was built with a lightweight spaceframe chassis and had a fiberglass body designed by Touring of Milan, which helped to reduce the car's weight down to just 2,000 pounds. This, combined with the car's aerodynamic shape and a top speed of 170 miles per hour, made it a formidable competitor on the track.
A notable feature of the DP214 was its adjustable suspension, which was achieved by an ingenious four-link system at the rear, with adjustable links for altering ride height and tuning the handling characteristics of the car. The front suspension consisted of double wishbones and coil springs with telescopic dampers, which worked in tandem with the rear suspension to provide precise, balanced handling.
Inside, the DP214 had a stripped-down interior, with only the essentials necessary for racing - a simple dashboard, lightweight bucket seats, and a roll cage for safety. One of the standout features of the car's cockpit was the large, black-faced rev counter, which was mounted on top of the dashboard for easy viewing.
The DP214's racing career was relatively short, with only four cars built, but it was nonetheless successful, taking third place overall at the 1963 Le Mans 24 Hours race. The car was also used in other endurance races, such as the Nürburgring 1000km and the Spa 500km.
In conclusion, the Aston Martin DP214 was a technical marvel of its time, a car that was designed with only one thing in mind - winning endurance races. Its powerful engine, lightweight construction, adjustable suspension, and superb handling made it a force to be reckoned with on the track. Despite its brief racing career, the DP214 cemented its place in automotive history as a truly remarkable sports car.
Milestones
- Aston Martin DP214 prototype unveiled in 1962 - DP214 designed for long-distance racing - DP214 uses a 4.0 L straight-six engine - DP214 has a lightweight aluminum alloy spaceframe - DP214 runs on Dunlop Racing tires - DP214 top speed recorded at 198 mph (318 km/h) - DP214 enters the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans race - DP214 retires from the race after 9 hours due to a gearbox problem - DP214 continues to compete in endurance races throughout 1962 - DP214 achieves multiple podium finishes throughout the year - DP214 marks the end of Aston Martin's factory racing programTechnical
- The Aston Martin DP214 was a racing car produced by Aston Martin in 1962 - It was a prototype racing car built to compete in the Le Mans 24 Hour race - The car was based on the DB4 GT model but with a number of modifications to improve its performance - The DP214 featured a lightweight, aerodynamic body made of aluminum and fiberglass - The car was powered by a 4.0 liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 320 horsepower - It had a top speed of 190 miles per hour and could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just over 6 seconds - The DP214 had a space frame chassis with independent suspension and disc brakes - Only four DP214s were built, making them very rare and highly sought after by collectors today - The car's racing career was short-lived, with only one DP214 finishing a race and achieving a fifth-place finish at Le Mans in 1963 - The DP214 is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and iconic sports cars of the 1960s.SUPERMIND TRIVIA