1979 Aston Martin V8 Series 3 Volante

5,340cc Paxton Supercharged DOHC V8 Engine (see text)
4 Dual-Throat Weber Carburetors
300bhp at 6,000rpm
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Original US delivery LHD V8
*Retains matching-numbers engine
*Uprated with a Paxton supercharger
*Offered with copy of factory build sheet


THE ASTON MARTIN V8

The acquisition of Aston Martin by Company Developments in 1972 brought with it a change of name for the V8-engined cars: out went DBS V8, in came AM V8. This new Series 2 was readily distinguishable by its restyled front which now featured two instead of four headlamps and recalled the looks of the earlier DB six-cylinder cars. Electronic ignition and air conditioning were now standard.

Introduced in 1973, the Series 3 employed a quartet of Weber 42 DCNF carburetors instead of the previous Bosch mechanical fuel injection, the change bringing with it increased torque and necessitating a larger bonnet bulge. Despite the switch, fuel economy improved and even in automatic-transmission form the Weber-equipped car proved almost as quick as the preceding manual version.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

According to copies of Aston Martin's factory build records, this V8 Volante was built during January of 1979. The car was equipped with a left-hand drive steering arrangement and a 3-speed automatic transmission, just as it appears today, and destined for the US market. The Volante was finished in Imperial Burgundy over a Fawn interior with dark red piping and a natural top. The first owner was recorded as Mr. Ira Smalloff of New York City.

The Aston Martin's early history remains unknown, but the car is listed in the Aston Martin Owners Club in 2005 and '06 as belonging to Dr. Dion Ehrlich of Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. At some point the car was repainted its shade of navy blue with the interior retrimmed with dark blue dash roll and piping. Additionally, European-style chrome bumpers were installed and the droptop was upgraded in performance with the addition of alloy wheels, fatter tires, bigger brakes, and a Paxton supercharger.

Acquired by the current owner in November of 2010, the car has been on static display since acquisition and mechanical recommissioning is recommended prior to barnstorming to your next event. The V8 is increasingly being appreciated by collectors as an important cornerstone of the Aston Martin story in America. After recommissioning, this V8 would make a lovely cruiser once again.