Definition
The Aston Martin DP215 is a purpose‑built sports prototype racing car developed by Aston Martin Lagonda Limited in 1963 for competition in endurance events, most notably the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Overview
The DP215 was the second in a series of “Development Project” (DP) prototypes that followed the DP212. Designed to improve on the performance and reliability of its predecessor, the DP215 featured an enlarged engine, revised aerodynamics, and a strengthened drivetrain. The car was entered in the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans but was forced to retire after a gearbox failure. After the race, the chassis was stored, later restored, and has since appeared at historic racing events and museum displays.
Etymology/Origin
- DP – An internal Aston Martin designation meaning “Development Project,” used for experimental racing machines.
- 215 – The numeric identifier assigned sequentially after the DP212, indicating its place in the development series.
Characteristics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Lightweight tubular space‑frame built from steel tubing, covered with aluminum body panels. |
| Engine | Originally a 3.7 L (3,714 cc) straight‑six, enlarged to 4.0 L (3,985 cc) for the DP215; twin‑carburetor configuration delivering approximately 285 bhp at 6,500 rpm. |
| Transmission | 5‑speed manual gearbox, rear‑mounted; failure of the gearbox during the 1963 Le Mans race is the only documented mechanical failure of the car. |
| Suspension | Front: double wishbone with coil springs and dampers; Rear: trailing‑arm layout with coil springs and dampers. |
| Brakes | Fully vented disc brakes on all four wheels, with servo assistance. |
| Aerodynamics | Streamlined aluminium bodywork featuring a pronounced front splitter, a low‑profile Kamm‑tail rear end, and integrated wheel arches to reduce drag. |
| Weight | Approximately 860 kg (1,896 lb), depending on specification and restoration level. |
| Performance | Top speed recorded around 260 km/h (162 mph) at Le Mans; lap times comparable to contemporary prototypes such as the Ferrari 250 GTO and the Jaguar E-Type Lightweight. |
| Racing History | Entered only in the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans; retired after 45 laps due to gearbox failure. The car later participated in historic racing events after restoration in the 1990s. |
Related Topics
- Aston Martin DP212 – Predecessor development prototype with a 3.7 L engine.
- Aston Martin DB4 – Road‑going grand tourer whose chassis and components formed the basis for the DP series.
- Aston Martin DBR1 – Successful GT racing car contemporaneous with the DP prototypes.
- 24 Hours of Le Mans – Endurance race in which the DP215 competed.
- British sports‑prototype racing cars of the early 1960s – Contextual category including models such as the Lotus 23 and the Jaguar C-Type.
- Historic motorsport preservation – Field encompassing the restoration and exhibition of classic racing cars like the DP215.