The Aston Martin DP215 is a 3,995 cc, inline — six petrol engine developed in 1963 for the DP215 Grand Touring Prototype. It features a DOHC, 24 — valve configuration with triple twin — choke Weber 45DCOE carburettors, producing approximately 310 kW (422 PS). This engine was engineered for high — speed endurance racing, with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and mechanical reliability at sustained high RPM.
Fitted exclusively to the DP215 prototype, a development of the DB…
The DP215 was built to FIA Appendix J regulations for Group 3 Grand Touring (FIA Homologation #FIA/GT/3/1963), not civilian emissions standards.
The Aston Martin DP215 is a 3,995 cc inline-six petrol engine engineered for high-speed endurance racing applications (1963). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with triple Weber carburettors to deliver peak power and high-RPM reliability. Designed to meet FIA Group 3 regulations, it prioritizes performance over emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,995 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
Power output | 310 kW (422 PS) @ 6,750 rpm | |
Torque | 500 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Triple twin-choke Weber 45DCOE carburettors | |
Emissions standard | Not applicable (pre-regulatory era) | |
Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row) | |
Oil type | Castrol R40 (SAE 20W-50) | |
Dry weight | 178 kg |
The Aston Martin DP215 was used exclusively in the DP215 Grand Touring Prototype with front-mounted longitudinal orientation and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific tuning-aggressive cam profiles and high-lift valve springs-and was paired with a close-ratio ZF 5-speed transmission. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The DP215's primary operational risk is fuel delivery instability under lateral G-forces, observed during its sole Le Mans appearance. Aston Martin Competition Division reports from 1963 documented fuel starvation in high-speed corners, while FIA post-race analysis confirmed mixture imbalance. High-RPM operation and sustained load increase timing chain and bearing stress, making oil quality and warm-up procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (1963) and FIA competition reports (1963-1964). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The DP215 was built for competition, not long-term road use. It requires meticulous maintenance, including 6,000-mile oil changes and regular carburettor adjustment. The dry-sump system and chain timing are robust if maintained, but fuel delivery under cornering remains a known limitation. With expert care, it can operate reliably in historic racing.
Key issues include fuel starvation during high-G cornering, carburettor synchronization drift, oil pressure fluctuation, and timing chain wear. These were documented in Aston Martin's 1963 competition reports and affect historic event participation if not addressed with period-correct modifications.
The DP215 engine was used exclusively in the DP215 Grand Touring Prototype (chassis DP215/1/63), a one-off development of the DB4 GT Zagato. No other production or prototype Aston Martin used this exact configuration. It was not homologated for series production.
Limited tuning potential exists within FIA historic regulations. Modifications are restricted to period-correct components. Output can be optimized via carburettor jetting, cam timing, and exhaust tuning, but gains are marginal. Most owners preserve originality due to the car's rarity and value.
Fuel economy is not applicable in the modern sense. During the 1963 Le Mans, the DP215 consumed approximately 22 L/100km (10.7 mpg UK) under race conditions. It requires 100-octane racing fuel for optimal performance and valve protection at high RPM.
Yes. The DP215 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner is essential, especially before historic racing events.
Aston Martin specifies Castrol R40 SAE 20W-50 for the DP215. This high-temperature-stability oil is critical for protecting the timing chain and main bearings under race conditions. Change every 6,000 miles or after each competition event to maintain engine longevity.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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