1992 Aston Martin Virage Volante

Footnotes

The Volante had been the big seller of the 'old' V8 line-up, so the only surprise was that it took Aston Martin more than two years from the Virage coupé's introduction to come up with a soft-top equivalent. 'The Volante is the new soft-top version of the Virage incorporating the latest changes made to the full Aston range. Beautiful hand-built craftsmanship abounds in this most aristocratic of convertibles,' declared Fast Lane magazine.

The production Virage Volante debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1991, a prototype having been displayed at Birmingham's NEC the previous October. Weighing in at over two tons, the open Volante was even heavier than the closed coupé, itself no lightweight, this increase in weight being accounted for by considerable body strengthening to compensate for the absent roof, plus the extra complication of the power-operated convertible hood. Electrically powered, the latter was beautifully made and incorporated a glass rear window, complete with heated de-misting elements. Mechanically the Volante remained much the same as its closed cousin, though with slightly lower final drive gearing to aid acceleration through the gears. Top speed was slightly reduced, to a still outstanding 150mph. Automatic transmission was standard on the Volante, the original three-speeder being superseded in 1993 by a new four-speed dual-mode (normal/sport) unit. The five-speed manual 'box continued to be available as an option.

One of the finest British performance sports cars of its time, the Virage Volante rapidly became a prized collector's item. This example has had only four previous owners and has belonged to the current vendor since 2005. Stratton Motor Company has maintained the car since 2005, though no major restoration work has been required; currently displaying circa 65,00 miles on the odometer, it is presented in good condition throughout. One of the more affordable soft-top Aston Martins, this well cared for Virage Volante is offered with its full tool kit, jack, space-saver spare wheel, tonneau cover, hood bag, owner's manual, and service booklet. There is plentiful service history on file and the car also comes with fresh MoT and a V5C Registration Certificate.