1987 Aston Martin V8 Convertible Coupe

The Aston Martin V8 Grand Touring car was an exclusive luxury sports car that is often considered the last of the traditional, hand-built Aston Martins. The Aston Martin V8 was in production over a 17-year period and was continually improved upon, receiving regular refinements and modifications. Power was from the Tadek Marek-designed four-cam V8 engine. In June of 1978, a Volante was added to the line followed by a Weber-Marelli electronic fuel injection system in 1984. The Volante range was distinguished by their flatter bonnet and smooth power curve.

Between 1978 and 1989, just 849 examples of the V8 Volante were built, of which 568 were configured in left-hand-drive for export.

This V8 Volante example is finished in Royal Cherry with tan upholstery with oxblood piping. It is fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox and 4-wheel Girling ventilated disc brakes. Nearly 90% of the US market V8 Volantes were given an automatic gearbox, making the manual a rare option.

The first owner was from Eureka, California who used the car sparingly, accruing fewer than 3,800 miles over a period of 10 years. In 2000, the car passed to another Northern California owner and benefitted from minimal use. More recently, the car went into the care of a collector in Palm Springs, California, who continued to preserve this low-mileage example. Currently, the car has less than 7,000 miles. It has its correct Blaupunkt radio, Connolly hides, walnut veneers and Wilton wool carpets.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's Pebble Beach, California auction. The car was estimated to sell for $140,000 - $180,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $103,400, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2012