Background

Following the success of the Limited Edition V8 Coupe, the new Vantage style V8 Coupe was introduced on the 5th of March 1996, at the Geneva Motor Show, alongside the DB7 Volante. Whereas all ten of the Limited Edition V8 Coupes shared many external features with the preceding Virage, the new V8 Coupe reflects the overall design themes and the smooth flowing aerodynamic lines of the Vantage, as was the case with most of the suspension system. However, it has its own distinctive design radiator intake, six spoke 18" x 8.5" alloy road wheels, and circular auxiliary driving lamps integrated within the front spoiler. Special compound 255 / 50 ZR18 Pirelli P Zero tyres were developed for the new model. The V8 Volante was launched in October 1998 at the London Motor Show, based on the V8 Coupe and Vantage models. To afford rear seat passengers extra legroom, 7 7/8" (200mm) was added to the length of rear passenger internal space, together with an additional �" (20mm) of shoulder width. Luggage accommodation also increased as a consequence. These increases were achieved by adding 7 7/8" to the wheelbase, which increased the overall length by the same amount, whilst the width was increased by 2 1/8" (53mm). The suspension specification was further refined to allow for the extra wheelbase, together with the increased power out-put from the engine. Special hydraulic door check straps were developed to control the opening and closing of the doors. The quad cam engine has 4 valves per cylinder, (last used by Aston Martin in 1921-2) and produces 350 horsepower. This was a further development of the now legendary Tadek Marek designed all alloy V8, with its racing pedigree. Improved cylinder heads, camshafts and pistons were fitted, together with an Alpha Plus' electronically controlled engine management system. According to Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd., the new V8 Coupe could reach 60 M.P.H. in less than 6.0 seconds and has a maximum speed in excess of 150 M.P.H. Naturally with the use of a three way catalytic exhaust system, the engine runs on unleaded fuel. However, for countries where leaded petrol is still the norm, a non-catalyst system was available. In effect, it is a worldwide engine compatible for all markets. The 4-speed automatic transmission is electronically controlled with Sport and Touring modes. Anti-lock AP / PBR brakes are fitted to all four wheels, with ventilated discs and four pot callipers. With a servo-assisted tandem master cylinder, the brakes are independent front and rear, controlled by a Bosch 4 channel ABS system. The power assisted rack and pinion steering is speed sensitive. The rear axle is fitted with a limited slip differential. All body panels are hand crafted in aluminium. Requiring ten Connolly hides each luxurious interior could be tailored to individual tastes. Burr Walnut is used for the fascia panel, centre console and door cappings, and Wilton carpet for the floor covering. There are a minimum of twelve separate coats of paint applied to each complete body. Each engine carries the name of the individual craftsman who was personally responsible for its build and extended dynamometer test. There is power assistance for the adjustment of the driver and front passenger seats. A sophisticated climate control system is provided together with a stereo, radio, cassette and CD player. For the final touch of luxury, cruise control is fitted for long distance touring.

Vehicle History

First registered in January 1998, this particular car was supplied new by Aston Martin main dealers, JCT600, in Bradford. The car moved southwards and was purchased by Andrew Cohen of Radlett in Hertfordshire in July 1999 and sold through the brokerage services of Byron International in May 2004 to the current owner. Finished in Galloway Green Metallic with a Magnolia Leather trim and Black Mohair hood, this genuine four seater Volante is fully equipped and boasts an outstanding service history.

Summary: This is a delightful low mileage car, presented in outstanding condition and in what many consider to be the right colour and trim combination. One of a build run of just 64 cars, this Long Wheelbase Volante offers true four seater luxury cruising with an added bonus of outstanding performance and road holding. With Spring just around the corner, there is no better time to buy this car for a truly enjoyable summer.