1982 Aston Martin V8 Volante Convertible Coupe

Due to production difficulties, the DBS first appeared with the DB6's 4.0-liter six, instead of housing Aston Martin's new V8 engine. The DBS was larger and more luxuriously appointed than the DB6 yet its slightly reduced performance was a bit of a disappointment. That was rectified in 1969 with the arrival of the V8. The four-cam 5340cc motor offered an estimated 315 BHP and could carry the DBS to 100 mph in under 14 seconds. Top speed was achieved at 160 mph making it the fastest production car in the world.

In 1972, the Aston Martin Company was acquired by Company Developments. Production resumed with the Series 2, now known as the Aston Martin V8. It had a restyled front end that drew inspiration from the earlier Astons. Production of the V8 lasted from 1969 to 1988, with 2,919 examples sold. The V8's was built in several variants, one of them being the Volante convertible. It was introduced in response to customer demand for such a car and made its first appearance in June of 1978. It had a power-operated top and although its open-car aerodynamics meant that its top speed was 150 mph, it was still ranked among the world's fastest convertibles.

This V8 Volante was built in January of 1982. It is a left-hand drive steering arrangement, a 5-speed manual transmission, and is finished in British Racing Green over a Natural interior. The early history of the car is not known; by the late 1980's it was in Wichita, KS where it appears to have stayed for decades. By 2012, the car is believed to have been owned by a New York-based enthusiast. Around this time the car received a comprehensive engine-out service. The current caretaker had the interior re-trimmed which cost over $38,000. The correct Connolly leather hides and Wilton carpets were sourced from the UK and a new Everflex convertible top and headliner was installed.

The 5340cc dual overhead cam V8 engine is fitted with 4 Dual-Throat Weber carburetors and offers 300 horsepower. There is an independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2016