Footnotes

Introduced in 1973, the 'Series 3' version of Aston Martin's successful V8 sports saloon employed a quartet of Weber carburettors instead of the previous Bosch mechanical fuel injection. This change, which necessitated a larger bonnet bulge, brought with it increased torque and smoother running at low speeds. Despite the switch to carburettors, fuel economy improved and even in automatic-transmission form the Weber-equipped car proved almost as quick as the preceding manual version.

Designed by Tadek Marek, Aston Martin's quad-cam V8 engine had been intended for the DBS, though delays in bringing the new power unit to production meant the latter first appeared equipped with the 4.0-litre six of the concurrently produced DB6. Bigger and more luxuriously appointed than the DB6, the heavier DBS disappointed some by virtue of its slightly reduced performance, but there were no complaints when the V8 arrived in 1969. With an estimated 345bhp available from its 5,340cc, fuel-injected engine, 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 that fully justified the claim that it was the fastest production car in the world.

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 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, air conditioning, and Adwest power assisted steering were now standard, and these improvements were carried over to the Series 3.

A rare and highly desirable manual transmission example, '11674' was delivered new via Williams of Alton Ltd to Systems Designers Ltd of Surrey. Copies of factory paperwork show that the car was originally finished in Regency Bronze metallic with black leather interior trim. The 'S' suffix to the chassis and engine numbers indicates that this car had the 'Stage 1' engine tune introduced in January 1977. Also on file is a copy of the 'Car and Warranty Acceptance' document recording the original registration as 'UPA 532S' and a change of speedometer at 3,438 miles.

Formerly registered in the Republic of Ireland, the car was purchased from specialist Aston Martin brokers Byron International by the current owner in October 2011, since when it has been on static display; re-commissioning will be required before further use. Additional paperwork includes a copy of the 2011 sales invoice and an old Irish registration document. Due to its years on static display, the V8 will require recommissioning prior to returning to the road.


Please note that if this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. It will also require a NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrival) and an additional fee of £250 (plus VAT) will be charged on the Invoice to prepare the NOVA. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.