Richard Zethrin

Richard Zethrin has been with HWM Aston Martin since 1990, joining us from the Hyde Vale dealership which itself was one of most successful Aston Martin dealers of its time. He has been involved with the marque since the 1960s and is now considered one of, if not the technical authority on all Aston Martin models built from the 1950s to the present day.

What is your favourite Aston Martin and why?

I have two – DB4GT and Vanquish. The DB4GT because we had one in the family during the 60s. We also had a DB2-4 and a DB4. My father used to let me use the DB4GT all the time when I was 18. The Vanquish because it is a lovely car and the last of the Newport Pagnell breed.

How long have you been with the brand?

Officially since 1976 but I have actually been involved with the marque for over 46 years. I also had involvement with Formula 3 and Group 5 racing in the 60s and worked with Ken Costello to fit the V8 engine in the MGB and set up a production line in the early 70s.

What interests do you have away from work?

Shooting and travelling. I used to do a lot of shooting with my son Michael who won a lot of competitions at Bisley, etc., but with the draconian laws in this country we have lost some of the enthusiasm. My wife and I enjoy travelling to far-off countries during the winter months.

What would you say is your greatest achievement?

Working alongside Paul Spires and the Harting family to help build HWM Aston Martin into one of the most successful Aston Martin dealers in the world and building the silver V8 race car that Hyde Vale campaigned with many results.

In your opinion, who is the greatest racing driver of all time and why?

I have two. Fangio and Stirling Moss. Fangio was rated by Moss to be the best which says a lot. Moss for his many drives but mainly for the 1955 Mille Miglia in the 300SLR, the sheer scale of that achievement is quite breathtaking.

What was your greatest drive?

I have had some fun drives – one in particular was down to Le Mans in 1980 when Ray Taft, my then co-director at Hyde Vale, and I took two black Vantage V8s down with some buddies. We reached outrageous speeds, took a lot of wrong turnings into small villages, etc, and we also consumed rather too much sauce in the process – well you could in those days!