1978 Aston Martin V8 Fastback Coupe

This V-8 Vantage was completed in August of 1977, and is one of the last to wear the third-series AMV8 body, and one of the only 38 first-series AMV8 Vantages. Eight more of these cars were exported to Canada. This striking AMV8 Vantage is not only one of these 8 cars, but it is believed to be the personal car of Canadian George Minden, one of the principal owners of the company between 1975 and 1981.

In 1990, the engine was returned to the European specification for Series 3 Vantages known as the X-Pack. It was given larger valves, re-ground camshafts, a redesigned intake, and a 48mm Weber carburetor.

In 1998, it was purchased by Patrice Runner. An additional $25,000 was spent to have it professionally cared for, including routine maintenance and detailing. In July of 2008, it was sold to Autosport Designs, who allocated approximately 17,000 over the following year to address a range of minor needs including paint touch-ups, new wheel hubs and bearings, re-finished original stock 16-Series 3 wheels and a complete rebuild of the high-compression engine.

In July 2008, it was purchased by John Carr of Norfolk, Virginia, who commissioned Autosport Designs to conduct a moderate cosmetic restoration. This work, which cost almost $21,000, included the installation of new seat cushions, re-upholstery of the trunk with the correct beige Wilton wool carpet, detailing of the engine compartment, re-chroming of the front and rear bumpers, and a meticulous re-paint in the car's original shade of Raven Black.

In January 2010, Mr. Carr traded this Vantage back to Autosport Designs who has since rebuilt the engine's Weber carburetors. It currently shows just over 62,300 miles.

In 2010, this Aston Martin was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was expected to sell for $150,000 - $210,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $330,000, inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2010