1986 Aston Martin V8 Volante

Production difficulties meant the new V8 engine was not ready in time to be placed in the DBS when the car first appeared. Instead, the DBS was fitted with the DB6's 4.0-liter six. The DBS was larger and more luxuriously appointed the DB6, but meant it was also heavier and its performance suffered. When the V8 finally arrived in 1969, its Achilles heel was resolved and the 315 horsepower produced from the 5,340cc four-cam engine provided plenty of performance. The DBS V8 could race from 0-to-100 mph in under 14 seconds and had a top speed of 160 mph.

In 1972, Aston Martin was acquired by Company Developments. Production resumed with the Series 2, now known as the Aston Martin V8. It came with a restyled front end that drew inspiration from the earlier Astons.

The Aston Martin V8 was built in several variants including the Volante Convertible. It first appeared in June of 1978, and came equipped with a power-operated top. It had a top speed of 150 mph which earned it the title as the world's fastest convertible. Just like the Saloon or Coupe versions, the V8 Volante was given periodic upgrades and refinements during its lifespan. In 1983 it received BBS wheels, and the switching to Weber-Marelli fuel injection - and a flatter bonnet - in 1986.

From 1969 to 1988, a total of 2,919 examples of the DBS V8. V8 Volante and Vantage Volante chassis numbers ran from '15001' to '15849', and counted a total of 849 cars. The last V8 Volantes were built in 1989.

This particular V8 Volante is a left-hand drive example that was manufactured for the United States market. It was delivered with the optional Vantage front air dam, and its exterior was finished in 'Cannock Black – Masons'. It was sold new to Texas and spent the first score of years in the United States. It was later acquired by a German Aston Martin enthusiast in February of 2006. While in Germany, the bumpers were changed to the European specification. It remained with the German owner until 2013, until being sold at Bonhams' Aston Martin Sale in 2013. It was acquired by its current caretaker who brought the car back to his home in the United States. Since that time, the car has been driven less than 600 miles. It has been given a thorough mechanical and cosmetic service.

The car is powered by a 5,340cc dual overhead cam V8 engine fitted with Weber-Marelli fuel injection and produces 300 horsepower. There is a five-speed manual transmission, independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2018