David Brown Automotive has unveiled the Speedback Silverstone Edition, the latest commission in its limited run series of luxury grand tourers. One of just 10 to be built, this Silverstone Edition is being delivered to its new owner in Asia.
The creation of this unique hand built Silverstone Edition took over 8,000 hours and it comes complete with a unique array of bespoke features.
The Speedback Silverstone Edition is an evolution of the iconic Speedback GT, which celebrates the heritage of David Brown Automotive’s Silverstone based headquarters and build facility.
This example’s aluminium body is finished in ‘Black Metallic’ exterior colour, a bespoke selection for the new owner. The hand-painting process itself took over 8 weeks to complete. The paintwork is offset by milled aluminium brightwork which is chrome-plated and hand-brushed to achieve a more muted effect, and complemented by monochrome badges, which feature on David Brown Automotive’s performance variants, and are hand-crafted by artisan jewellers based in the jewellery quarter in Birmingham, UK.
Inside, the opulent cockpit is also a testament to the hand-crafted and bespoke nature of each creation, with specially optioned heated and cooled ‘comfort’ seats hand-trimmed in rich ‘Oyster’ leather, elevated further by delicate broguing elements.
The cockpit features open-pore wood elements to the dash and door cards with subtle aluminium Union Flag and Silverstone Edition inlays, brushed chrome metalwork, and jet-inspired air vents, evoking the racing past of Silverstone, whilst simultaneously paying homage to the prestigious location’s aeronautical heritage.
The now famous Speedback deployable picnic seat is also present, folding out theatrically from the loadspace floor. This was specified by the new owner, along with a specially ordered picnic set, which includes a bespoke wool blanket, leather whisky bottle holder, and leather-trimmed flasks, making for the ultimate modern interpretation of the British ‘Gentleman’s Express’.
A curvaceous aluminium body evoking the Jet Age of the 1960s on each Speedback Silverstone Edition is coupled with enhanced and decidedly 21st century performance. A twin-scroll supercharged 5.0-litre V8 sends 601 bhp to the rear wheels via a 6-speed semi-automatic ZF transmission, giving a 0-60mph time of 4.2 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph. With such refined reserves of power and performance, Speedback Silverstone Edition possesses the continent crushing ability of a true hyper-GT.
The limited run special edition models are honed to deliver an exhilarating yet entirely modern driving experience, with carefully calibrated Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, agility aiding active rear differential, high performance brakes, and a full suite of safety equipment enhancing occupant enjoyment and comfort.
The exterior of the car is set apart from Speedback GT through touches giving a nod to the aeronautical heritage of the Silverstone circuit. Aggression and performance-orientation is injected into the timeless 1960s inspired shape through the addition of body-coloured sill extensions and bespoke 20-inch ‘Afterburner’ wheels, delivering a purposeful stance. The exhaust system is also revised, with new jet inspired, rifled quad-outlet exits that emit a visceral yet cultured V8 bark.
David Brown, CEO and Founder at David Brown Automotive, said: “This latest in a line of limited-edition Silverstone Editions is a reminder of the continued appeal of the now iconic Speedback shape, and acts as a fitting tribute to the heritage of Silverstone. This particular model represents the crystallisation of what David Brown Automotive stands for; emotive, timelessly stylish motor cars, that marry bespoke coachbuilding techniques and high build quality with modern performance and an exhilarating, affecting driving experience. Our growing base of customers around the world trust us to imbue each car we produce with these attributes.”
Speedback Silverstone Edition is handbuilt at the company’s headquarters in Silverstone, UK. Built to order, the car is available in either left-hand or right-hand drive and pricing is available on application.