Founded by David Brown, a British businessman, engineer and sports car enthusiast, David Brown Automotive is a sports car startup hoping to make some waves with its first creation – an Aston Martin DB5-inspired grand tourer named the Speedback.
Despite its classic looks, the Speedback features the aluminium structure and engine of the Jaguar XK. And while the exterior elements have been heavily customized, the engine is the same 510 hp supercharged 5.0-liter V8 powerplant you’d find under the hood of the XKR. Also similar to the Jaguar, the drive goes to the rear wheels via a paddle-shifted six-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of performance, the Speedback accelerates from 0 to 652 mph in 4.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. The car’s sleek look is the result of chief designer Alan Mobberley’s work. The inside of the car is quite impressive as well, with the extensive use of leather, hand-crafted wood veneers and warm nickel finishes providing an air of sophistication to the vehicle.
David Brown Automotive plans to showcase the Speedback for the first time during the 2014 Top Marques Monaco, which takes place between the 17th and 20th of April. About 50 cars will be built per year, for a price that is yet to be announced.
[Motor Authority]
