Catherine Tejada
Sale Coordinator
LOT 11
1976 Aston Martin V8 Series 3 Sport Saloon Chassis no. V8/11411/LCA Engine no. V/540/1411/LFA
Sold for US$44,800 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 11
1976 Aston Martin V8 Series 3 Sport Saloon
1976 Aston Martin V8 Series 3 Sport Saloon
Chassis no. V8/11411/LCA
Engine no. V/540/1411/LFA
Chassis no. V8/11411/LCA
Engine no. V/540/1411/LFA
5,340cc DOHC V8 Engine
4 Downdraft Weber Carburetors
320bhp at 5,000rpm
3-Speed Torqueflite Automatic Transmission
Front Wishbones with Coil Springs, Rear De Dion Axle with Watts Link
4-Wheel Ventilated Disc Brakes
*A desirable early example of Aston's iconic V8 Saloon
*Retains its numbers-matching engine
*A capable and collectible grand tourer
*Requires recommissioning
THE ASTON MARTIN DBS V8
Aston Martin had always intended the DBS chassis 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 those criticisms were silenced when the V8 finally arrived in 1969. With an estimated 320 bhp available from its 5,340cc four-cam engine, the DBS V8 could reach 100mph in under 14 seconds, running on to a top speed of 160mph, earning it the crown of the fastest four-seat production car in the world.
After Aston Martin's acquisition by Company Developments in 1972, production resumed with the Series 2, simply renamed Aston Martin V8, and distinguished by new front-end styling recalling the looks of earlier Astons. The V8 became the most successful Aston Martin to date, surviving the changes of ownership and financial upheavals of the 1970s, to enjoy 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, earning its place in Aston Martin lore.
THE CAR OFFERED
Exemplifying the muscular elegance that defines the whole of the V8 range, this 1976 Series 3 model is a USA market example, delivered new to Hollywood Sports Cars in Hollywood, California. Finished in Ascot Grey over Burgundy leather, it was optioned with an automatic gearbox and air conditioning. The deep red leather seats appear in good order and the car retains original touches including the three-spoke wheel, Smiths dials, and more. It also features one of the ultimate '70's Man accessories, a Blaupunkt Berlin "Gooseneck" stereo system. Now featuring an older repaint in bright red over the original Burgundy trim, this V8 is offered from long-term static display and is ready to be awakened for future enjoyment on rallies and tours.
Accompanying factory production records confirm this car retains its original numbers matching V8 engine. As a Series 3 car, the distinctive airbox feeds a quartet of downdraft Weber carburetors, which proved to be more reliable and efficient than the complex Bosch injection of earlier models. Other documentation includes a reprint owner's manual and brochure.
Please note that this car has been in long-term dry storage on static display, as part of a private collection. It has not been started while in Bonham's care and will require recommissioning.
Saleroom notices
Due to California emissions laws, please note that this car can only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside of California or a licensed automotive dealer.
Additional information
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