Why Did Ringbrothers Choose the Aston Martin DBS for Their Latest Restomod?
When you think of iconic British cars, the Aston Martin DBS probably isn’t the first model that springs to mind for a wild restomod. That’s exactly why Ringbrothers, the Wisconsin-based custom car maestros, zeroed in on it. Their latest project, named Octavia, started life as a tired blue 1971 DBS—a car that once bridged the gap between the elegant DB6 and the muscular V8 Vantage. Most shops would have gone for a Mustang or a Camaro, but Ringbrothers? They saw untapped potential in a forgotten English classic.
Their approach is never about playing it safe. Instead, they ask, “What if?” What if you could blend the stoic charm of British engineering with the raw power and attitude of American muscle? Octavia is their answer—a car that’s as much about imagination as it is about skill. The result? Pure magic.
How Did Ringbrothers Transform the Classic DBS Into Octavia?
Twelve thousand hours. That’s how much time Ringbrothers poured into this build. They didn’t just restore the DBS—they completely reimagined it. The chassis is stretched by three inches, giving the car a more aggressive stance and a wider track. Underneath, you’ll find a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis, Fox coilovers, and massive 14-inch Brembo brakes. Those gorgeous three-piece center-lock wheels? Custom jobs from Ragle Design and HRE, chosen to handle the kind of power most classic Astons could only dream about.
And speaking of power, Octavia packs a supercharged Ford Coyote V8 under its carbon fiber skin. We’re talking 805 horsepower, all sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed Tremec manual. That’s more than triple what the original DBS offered. But it’s not just about brute force—Ringbrothers paid homage to the car’s heritage with custom valve covers styled after the original Tadek Marek-designed V8, cheekily labeled “Aston Martini.” Even the dipstick handle is machined to look like a martini glass. It’s these playful, thoughtful touches that set their builds apart.
What’s It Like Inside Octavia’s Cabin?
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a blend of billet aluminum, carbon fiber, brass, and leather. It’s a mashup of old-world luxury and modern performance, but somehow it all works. The spirit of the original DBS is still there, but now it’s joined by features James Bond himself would envy—think an array of cameras and Gentex’s auto-dimming visors.
Ringbrothers didn’t just slap on some new seats and call it a day. Every detail, from the stitching on the leather to the placement of the brass accents, was carefully considered. The cabin feels like a celebration of both English refinement and American bravado. It’s the kind of place where you could imagine an MI6 agent unwinding after a long mission—or tearing up a back road just for the thrill of it.
How Does Octavia Compare to Other Ringbrothers Builds?
Ringbrothers have a reputation for pushing the envelope, but Octavia is in a league of its own. In the past, they’ve wowed crowds with wild takes on the AMC Javelin and even managed to stuff a modern LT4 V8 into a vintage Rolls-Royce. But Octavia is different. It’s not just a showcase of technical prowess—it’s a statement about what restomodding can be when you let creativity lead the way.
Co-owner Jim Ring summed it up best: “We asked ourselves, ‘What would an MI6 agent drive on holiday?’ This was the result.” Cofounder Mike Ring added, “We’ve combined the ferocity of American muscle with the stiff upper lip of English sophistication and motoring.” That blend is what makes Octavia so compelling. It’s not just fast—it’s got personality.
What Does Octavia Mean for the Future of Restomods?
Octavia isn’t just a one-off showpiece. It’s a sign that the restomod world is evolving. No longer is it enough to simply restore a classic to its former glory. The best builders are asking bigger questions: How can we honor the past while pushing into the future? How do we make something truly unique, not just for the sake of being different, but to tell a new story?
Industry trends back this up. According to a 2023 report from Hagerty, demand for high-end restomods has surged by over 35% in the last five years, with buyers seeking both performance and individuality. Octavia fits that mold perfectly. It’s a car that respects its roots but isn’t afraid to break the rules.
The big takeaway? Restomodding isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.