WITH values of around $700,000 for a mint example, no wonder Aston Martins are becoming increasingly popular restoration subjects.

This 1968 DB6 came into BMC’s workshop as part of an extensive — and eye-wateringly expensive — mechanical and body restoration that included some special additions.

The Western Australian car has lived in the state for most of its life. The restoration started during the COVID period and started with some clever features designed and fitted by BMC’s tech man Colin Bonney.

These started with replacing the stock radio with an audio system that looks almost exactly like the, er, stock radio. But the Chrome London radio combines retro style with the latest connectivity and modern internals and even comes with an illuminated ‘Aston Martin’ back panel.

Another subtle upgrade was the electric power steering — a clever idea that makes low-speed parking exercises a breeze for drivers yet the system is invisible and can even be removed to restore the car back to original. It can also be switched off anytime.

Then there is the alloy radiator to keep the engine cool, particularly when it’s summer and the car is in city traffic, and electronic and electric upgrades including LED lights.

The car returned to the workshop after the exquisite paint job — in Aston’s popular and 007 colour of Silver Birch — recently for the fitment of some parts and a final check. It has since returned to its WA owner.