Aston Martin DB2/4 Spider Bertone

Vehicle Overview

The Aston Martin DB2/4 Spider, known as the “Indiana” Spider, represents the final chapter in the intriguing collaboration between American industrialist Stanley H. “Wacky” Arnolt, Aston Martin, and Carrozzeria Bertone. This one-off creation is a perfect blend of British engineering, Italian design, and American ambition, making it a unique and historically significant car from the 1950s. Between 1954 and 1955, Arnolt worked closely with Bertone, requesting seven DB2/4 rolling chassis from Aston Martin. Arnolt, who had ties to both Aston Martin and Bertone, sought to create a series of coachbuilt cars under his own name. This partnership led to the transformation of five of these DB2/4s into a mix of competition-style Spyders and luxurious Convertibles. The car in question, chassis number LML/762, was completed in August 1954 and dispatched to Bertone in November of the same year. Under the direction of Franco Scaglione, one of the most renowned Italian automotive designers, the DB2/4 was given a stunning new open two-seater Spider body. With its beautifully sculpted bonnet, wraparound windscreen, and elegant lines, the car exhibited styling elements reminiscent of Scaglione’s other famous works, such as the Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva and Giulietta Sprint. Its fluid, sporty character was a perfect complement to the classic Aston Martin grille and was a clear departure from the typical design of the era. The “Indiana” name, though never definitively explained, likely references the Indianapolis 500 race or Arnolt’s headquarters in Warsaw, Indiana. The car was first showcased at the 1956 Torino Motor Show and later made its US debut at the Chicago or New York International Auto Show in early 1957. Its striking gray-blue exterior and off-white interior made a lasting impression on automotive enthusiasts. After its debut, the Aston Martin DB2/4 “Indiana” Spider changed hands several times, passing through notable collectors’ hands and undergoing extensive restoration by its later owners. The car, fully restored to its original specifications, continues to impress at concours d’elegance events, including the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and the Zurich Classic Car Award Concours d’Elegance, where it earned top awards. This one-of-a-kind Spider, with its fascinating history, unique design, and impeccable restoration, stands as a testament to the vision of Stanley Arnolt and the exceptional craftsmanship of Bertone and Scaglione. It is a rare gem for any discerning collector looking for a historically significant and beautifully crafted example of automotive artistry.