Aston Martin just introduced an all-electric version of the DB5. Wait; what? Wasn't the DB5 discontinued back in 1965? Yes, it was, although the company built an additional 25 chassis in 2020, but this EV is not an authentic DB5. It's a two-thirds scale version of the iconic grand tourer. It's called the DB5 Junior to reflect its smaller scale, and it's being built in cooperation with The Little Car Company.

The Aston Martin DB5 Junior looks like the rear deal

All the iconic details are present, including the oval headlamps, the almost trapezoidal grille, the aluminum bumpers, and the wire wheels. But unlike the original DB5, it's not available as a coupe. Aston Martin is building convertible models only so that the driver and passenger won't have issues with headroom while inside the car.

The Aston Martin DB5 Junior is a two-seater

While the original DB5 was a 2+2 car, offering room for smaller adults in the rear, the DB5 Junior has only two seats. Because the car is just three meters long, it's impossible to add a second row of seats, no matter how small. Although it might seem like a car designed for kids, Aston Martin says that an adult will fit behind the steering wheel. "The DB5 Junior is designed to easily accommodate an adult and a child side by side, to allow different generations to share the love of driving," the British company explains in a press release.

The steering wheel is also smaller, and it features a racing-style quick-release system to make entry and exit easier. The seats are wrapped in black leather, and the trunk is fully functional.

The Aston Martin DB5 Junior isn't as powerful as you may think

Aston Martin cars are usually powerful and fast, but the DB5 Junior isn't one of them, which makes sense given the size. The standard model is powered by a 5kW electric motor that cranks out 6.7 horsepower. This is enough to reach a top speed of 30 mph. It's not much, but the DB5 Junior tips the scales at only 270 kg (about 595 pounds), so the power-to-weight ratio isn't bad for a small-scale car. Opt for the Vantage version, and output increases to 13.4 horsepower. This version also comes with a higher top speed, but Aston Martin has yet to test it properly.

Both variants are powered by removable battery packs stored under the hood. The base model runs for up to 20 miles on a single charge, while the Vantage version is capable of 40 miles. Both figures depend on the driving style, but the minimum rating is set at 10 and 20 miles, respectively.

It comes with disc brakes at all four corners. The Vantage model includes a limited-sleep differential and a carbon-fiber body. The battery can be swapped in second to avoid recharging, and you can also add a second pack to the regular model to obtain the range of the Vantage version.

The small EV also has three selectable driving modes. There's a Novice mode with just 1.3 horsepower and a top speed of 12 mph for less experienced drivers and an Expert mode with the full power and top speed. The third Race mode is a Balance of Performance type of setup that allows the acceleration and top speed of the vehicle to be aligned with other Little Car Company models for competition. This mode was designed specifically for the membership to the Little Car Club that comes with DB5 Junior, allowing clients to take part in exclusive events for small-scale cars.

Aston Martin DB5 specifications

The Aston Martin DB5 Junior is expensive

It may be little, but the DB5 Junior is far from cheap. Definitely more affordable than other Aston Martins, but as expensive as a midsize sedan or well-equipped SUV.

Aston Martin will build 1,059 little cars starting in 2021. The production run will match that of the original DB5. Three cars will be kept by Aston Martin and The Little Car Company, and 1,056 will be sold to customers. Owners of original DB5 cars will be offered first the opportunity to have a DB5 Junior with a matching chassis number to their car. Every DB5 Junior owner will receive automatic membership of the respected Aston Martin Owners Club, and three complete registers of the individual specification of all 1,059 vehicles will be created for future provenance and authenticity.