Currently reading: Classic Aston Martin DBS reinvented as 805bhp hot rod

DBS restomod by American firm Ringbrothers sits on new a chassis and is boosted by a 2.65-litre supercharger

The classic Aston Martin DBS has been reinvented as a hot rod, fitted with a Ford Mustang V8.

Courtesy of American restomod and performance parts firm Ringbrothers, the GT now draws power from a 5.0-litre Coyote engine that has been overhauled and fitted with a 2.65-litre supercharger to put out 805bhp. 

To cope with the extra grunt, the original gearbox has been swapped for the same Tremec six-speed manual unit used by models such as the C6 Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Challenger Hellcat and Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing.

The DBS’s structure has also been extensively modified. Its original chassis has been swapped for a new development by hot rod specialist Roadster Shop, with a 3in-longer wheelbase, an 8in-wider front track and a 10in-wider rear track.

Fox coilover suspension is fitted at each corner, the brakes have been uprated to 380mm Brembo discs and bespoke centre-lock wheels by HRE have been fitted to provide sufficient clearance of the brakes.

The original DBS bodywork has been replaced with a carbonfibre kit painted in Double-0 Silver, in reference to Aston Martin’s connection with the James Bond franchise. 

In keeping with the Bond theme, ‘Aston Martini’ is written on the engine’s valve covers and the oil dipstick is machined into the shape of a Martini glass.

Ringbrothers Aston Martin DBS engine cover

Inside, the Ringbrothers DBS gets a new carbonfibre dashboard with stainless steel accents, brass door handles and tan leather upholstery.

“We asked ourselves ‘what would an MI6 agent drive on his holiday?’,” explained Ringbrothers co-owner Jim Ring.

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The result, nicknamed Octavia by the firm, will be shown at The Quail Motorsports Gathering as part of Monterey Car Week in the US.

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Charlie Martin

Charlie Martin Autocar
Title: Staff Writer

As part of Autocar’s news desk, Charlie plays a key role in the title’s coverage of new car launches and industry events. He’s also a regular contributor to its social media channels, creating content for Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and Twitter.

Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after a nine-month stint as an apprentice with sister publication What Car?, during which he acquired his gold-standard NCTJ diploma with the Press Association.

He is the proud owner of a Mk4 Mazda MX-5 but still feels pangs of guilt over selling his first car, a Fiat Panda 100HP.

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Leslie Brook 18 August 2025

I thought a restomod was enhancement of the original; This has a new chassis, a new engine, new bodywork, new suspension and brakes and a new interior. What is there of the original car left. Is it a restoration or a kit car? either way it's bloody ugly.

jason_recliner 17 August 2025
Awful. It looks like an Aston by VAG.
Pietro Cavolonero 16 August 2025

So, what is the Aston Martin element of this restomod? With a new (and differnet)  chassis/engine/body how is it still an AM?

Have Aston endorsed this? If not, then their legal team need a refresh and replace.

That aside, there are elements of it I like, the hood scoop not being one of them....