1982 Aston Martin V8 Volante

5,340cc DOHC V8 Engine
4 Dual-Throat Weber Carburetors
300bhp at 6,000rpm
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
Front Independent Suspension – De Dion Rear Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Original US delivery LHD V8 Volante
*Two owner California car, in current ownership since 1989
*Retains matching-numbers engine
*Offered with copy of factory build sheet, owner's manual and original tools


THE ASTON MARTIN V8

Aston Martin had always intended the DBS to house its new V8 engine, but production difficulties meant that the car first appeared with the DB6's 4.0-liter six. Bigger and more luxuriously appointed than the DB6, the heavyweight DBS disappointed some by virtue of its slightly reduced performance, but there were no complaints when the V8 finally arrived in 1969. With an estimated 315bhp available from its 5,340cc four-cam motor, the DBS V8 could reach 100mph in under 14 seconds, running on to a top speed of 160mph, a staggering performance in those days and one which fully justified the claim that it was the fastest production car in the world. After Aston Martin's acquisition by Company Developments in 1972, production resumed with the Series 2, now known as the Aston Martin V8 and distinguishable by a restyled front end recalling the looks of earlier Astons. The most successful Aston Martin ever, the V8 survived the changes of ownership and financial upheavals of the 1970s, enjoying a record-breaking production run lasting from 1969 to 1988, with 2,919 cars sold.

Described by former Aston Martin Chairman Victor Gauntlett as "a stylish thoroughbred, beautifully built, luxurious, fast and immensely safe," the V8 was built in several variants, one of the more exclusive being the Volante convertible. Introduced in response to customer demand for such a car, the Volante first appeared in June 1978. Arguably the ultimate in soft-top luxury, the newcomer boasted a lined, power-operated top which, when erected, endowed the walnut embellished interior with all the solidity and refinement associated with the saloon version. Although its open-car aerodynamics meant that top speed suffered with the top down, the Volante's 150mph maximum nevertheless ranked it among the world's fastest convertibles. V8 Volante and Vantage Volante chassis numbers ran from '15001' to '15849', a total of 849 cars.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This V8 Volante was built in March of 1982. 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. It was dispatched to Aston Martin Sales Inc. in New York, before making its way to the selling dealer Newport Imports in Newport Beach, California. The Volante was finished in the non-standard paint color Dover White over a Natural leather interior with Brown piping, Tan Wilton wool carpeting and a matching Natural top.

The Aston Martin was originally delivered new to lawyer Louis Meisinger of California before being purchased by its current owner in September of 1989. In the 33 years of current ownership, this car has been enjoying the top-down driving experience for decades in the Los Angeles area. Showing 95,163 miles on the odometer is a testament to the enjoyment had with this example. This hand built car came well-appointed from the factory with many sporty and luxurious features including all aluminum 4-cam V8 engine, limited slip differential, sport suspension setup, match painted alloy wheels, full leather interior, burled walnut wood trim, power windows and mirrors, twin fuel fillers and air conditioning. With a total sticker price of $117,835 USD in 1982, this was one of the most expensive drop top imports offered in the United States at the time.


Offered here with its owner's manual and booklets, copy of the original sticker, copy of the factory build sheet, tools and original spare tire, this powerful Aston Martin must be one of the best preserved examples on the market today. As a well-cared for and maintained California car, it is presented with a wonderful patina and originality that is difficult to replicate. With the desirable convertible top and the powerful V8 engine, this car is a very useful piece of British motoring history which will both work as a summer cruiser or a high-speed rally car. The V8 is increasingly being appreciated by collectors as an important cornerstone of the Aston Martin story in America. This V8 Volante is ready to be driven and enjoyed by its next caretaker.